Mexican-Style Marinated Cheese Recipe

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4.4 (1078)

Mexican-style marinated cheese combines Cheddar and pepper Jack cheese squares with creamy centers for a festive, colorful appetizer that's perfect for entertaining. This eye-catching appetizer features vibrant colors and bold flavors that make it an immediate party favorite. The combination of different cheese textures and spicy marinade creates an irresistible appetizer that guests remember long after the party ends.

Ceramic dish of meixcan style marinated sliced cheddar and jack cheese with cream cheese middles

This Mexican-style marinated cheese, squares of Cheddar and pepper Jack cheese with cream cheese middles, makes a festive appetizer, fun to make, and fun to eat. Serve with small round tortilla chips or crackers.

Prep Time:
20 mins
Marinate Time:
2 hrs
Freeze Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
2 hrs 35 mins
Servings:
16 to 20
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Ingredients

1/2x
1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 16 servings

  • 1 (8 ounce) block sharp Cheddar cheese

  • 1 (8 ounce) block pepper Jack cheese

  • 8 ounces cream cheese

  • 1 jalapeno , finely chopped

  • 1/4 cup minced red onion

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

  1. Place Cheddar, pepper Jack, and cream cheese blocks in the freezer for 15 minutes.

  2. Meanwhile, add jalapeno, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, red wine vinegar, chili powder, salt, and olive oil to a bowl and stir until well blended; set aside.

  3. Cut each block of Cheddar and Jack cheese in half lengthwise and then cut each piece into 1/4-inch square pieces.  Cut a small piece off of the cream cheese and place it between alternating flavors of cheese.  Place the alternating cheese slices on their slides in the bottom of a small casserole or shallow dish.  This can be done in 2 to 4 rows depending on the size of the dish.

  4. Pour the reserved marinade over the cheeses, cover, and refrigerate at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

224 Calories
21g Fat
2g Carbs
8g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 16
Calories 224
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21g27%
Saturated Fat 9g46%
Cholesterol 41mg14%
Sodium 305mg13%
Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
Dietary Fiber 0g1%
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 8g16%
Vitamin C 2mg2%
Calcium 223mg17%
Iron 0mg1%
Potassium 61mg1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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John Davis
John Davis

Hi, I’m John Davis!
Food has always been my favorite way to connect with people, and that’s why I started blogging about it. I love sharing quick, creative recipes that prove cooking at home can be just as exciting as eating out. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, I enjoy keeping things simple, flavorful, and approachable for everyone. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, I’m usually exploring new cuisines or hunting for fresh inspiration at local markets.

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