Hot Cheese Hors D'Oeuvre
A creamy, cheesy appetizer with spicy roasted chilies, perfect for entertaining guests and pairing with crackers for a flavorful, warm hors d'oeuvre.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs and mix in the milk.
- Put a layer of shredded Cheddar cheese on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread the three cans of peeled and roasted chilies over the cheese.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Serve hot on crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream to the egg mixture. If sharp New York Cheddar is unavailable, a combination of medium Cheddar and Monterey Jack works well. For a spicier kick, opt for jalapeño chilies instead of roasted ones. You can also customize with herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hot Cheese Hors D'Oeuvre warm on homemade soda crackers for a delightful crunch. Pair it with a fresh salad featuring ingredients like Fresh Florida Green Beans 'N Ham for a balanced meal. This dish also works well as an appetizer at parties, alongside other finger foods or as part of a vegetarian recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, though the oven method preserves the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Cheese Hors D'Oeuvre contains roughly 874 calories, with 23g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (80% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 940mg per serving (41% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble it in the pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor or don't have roasted chilies on hand, you can substitute them with diced bell peppers or omit them altogether. Alternatively, you can use salsa verde for a zesty variation. Just be cautious about the moisture content, as it may affect the baking time.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the crackers you serve alongside are certified gluten-free. Additionally, double-check the label of the canned chilies to confirm they don't contain any gluten-based additives.
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).