Cheese Wedges
Cheese Wedges are savory, cheesy snacks featuring sharp Cheddar, green chilies, and green onions, baked to a golden perfection. These versatile wedges are ideal for parties, picnics, or casual get-togethers, offering a delightful combination of spicy, cheesy flavors in a crispy, tender crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, and chili powder.
- Add the melted margarine, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients.
- Stir until just moistened.
- Press the mixture into a nine-inch square pan.
- Bake at 350°F until lightly browned and beginning to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 25 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix the shredded Cheddar cheese, green chilies, and chopped green onions.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the hot baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake until the cheese melts, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve either hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, Pepper Jack or a Mexican blend can substitute well. You can also use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor. Ensure the crust is well-pressed into the pan for even baking, similar to techniques used in Corn Bake.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese wedges are perfect as a snack or appetizer and pair beautifully with a fresh salad or salsa for dipping. Serve them hot or cold, making them a versatile addition to any gathering. For a more filling meal, consider pairing them with a side of soups, such as a hearty tomato or a vegetarian chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual wedges for about 30 seconds, but the oven method will maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Wedges contains roughly 363 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheese wedges ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and cheese mixture ahead of time. Simply bake the crust and let it cool before adding the cheese mixture. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake again. This makes it easy to serve at parties or during busy weeknights.
Can I freeze the cheese wedges?
Absolutely! After baking and cooling completely, cut the cheese wedges and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer for best results.
What can I use instead of green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the green chilies or substitute them with diced bell peppers. For a more unique twist, consider using sun-dried tomatoes or olives. Both options will still complement the cheese nicely while adding different flavor profiles.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).