Hot Cheese Spread
A creamy, savory hot cheese spread infused with dried beef, green pepper, onion flakes, and garlic, topped with toasted pecans, perfect for parties and snack platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blend cream cheese, milk, dried beef, and sour cream until smooth.
- Add chopped green pepper, dried onion flakes, and garlic powder; mix well.
- Place the mixture in a pie plate.
- Sprinkle with coarsely chopped pecans that have been heated in butter.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve with Escort crackers or your favorite accompaniments.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before blending. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or switching to pepper jack cheese. You can also substitute the dried beef with crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor. Adjust the garlic powder to your taste; fresh minced garlic can also be used for a more robust flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot cheese spread with Escort crackers for a classic pairing, or try it with fresh vegetable sticks for a lighter option. It also complements well with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices. For a fun twist, serve alongside Tailgate Beef Sandwiches or as a dip for chips at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Cheese Spread contains roughly 232 calories, with 7g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% 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 hot cheese spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even baking.
What can I substitute for dried beef?
If you don't have dried beef, you can use finely chopped ham, crumbled bacon, or even cooked and shredded chicken for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the substitute is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a way to make this recipe lower in calories?
To reduce calories, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream. You can also cut back on the amount of pecans used or omit them altogether. This will still provide a tasty dip while making it lighter.
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).