Chile-Cheese Loaf
A savory, cheesy bread loaf with green chiles, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or side dish, featuring a soft interior and a golden, crusty exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Allow dough to thaw at room temperature.
- On a lightly floured board, roll the dough out to a 14 x 12-inch rectangle.
- Brush the dough with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle with shredded Jack cheese and diced green chiles.
- Beginning from the long side, tightly roll the dough up jelly roll fashion.
- Place the seam side down on a baking sheet, pinching the ends together to form an oval shape.
- Using a sharp knife or scissors, cut slashes in the dough at 1-inch intervals.
- Brush the dough with the remaining melted butter.
- Allow the loaf to rise until doubled in size.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove from the pan immediately and allow to cool on a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or garlic powder to the cheese mixture. If you don't have Jack cheese, Monterey Jack or a blend of cheddar can work well as substitutes. For an extra kick, use spicy green chiles or add diced jalapeños. Make sure to roll the dough tightly to prevent it from unraveling during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a savory snack or appetizer, perfect for gatherings. Pair it with a fresh salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. This loaf also makes an excellent side with chili or stew. For a delightful contrast, consider serving alongside a light dessert like Butterscotch Pudding Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chile-Cheese Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile-Cheese Loaf contains roughly 52 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 use homemade bread dough instead of frozen?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade bread dough if you prefer. Just ensure it has similar properties to frozen white bread dough, allowing it to rise and bake well. This will give you a fresher taste and potentially more control over the ingredients.
What can I do if I can't find green chiles?
If green chiles are unavailable, you can substitute with roasted red peppers for a milder flavor or even omit them entirely. Alternatively, using a small amount of diced canned jalapeños can add a nice heat to the loaf. Just adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the filling with additional ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or different types of cheese. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also elevate the flavor, making it a versatile recipe to suit your taste.
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).