Hot Pecan Spread
Hot Pecan Spread is a creamy, savory appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, chopped green pepper, green onions, dried beef, and minced garlic, topped with toasted pecans. Perfect for entertaining, it pairs well with crackers or Melba toast and can be served hot or cold.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese and sour cream with green pepper, green onions, dried beef, garlic, onion salt, and pepper.
- Put the mixture into a small casserole dish. (Can be made ahead.)
- Toast pecans in melted butter in a small skillet for about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans over the cheese mixture.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until hot.
- Serve with Melba toast rounds or crackers. Can also be served cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the dried beef with chopped ham or turkey if you prefer a different flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. This hot pecan spread is similar in flavor to Spicy Beef Dip, making it a great companion for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful hot pecan spread with Melba toast rounds or an assortment of crackers for a perfect appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a fresh veggie platter or alongside a cheese board. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of Browned Rice or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be served cold, maintaining its flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pecan Spread contains roughly 307 calories, with 7g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (13% 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 pecan spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spread a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to placing it in the casserole dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, toast the pecans and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How can I adjust the flavor if it's too salty?
If the spread turns out too salty due to the dried beef, you can balance it by adding a little more cream cheese or sour cream to dilute the saltiness. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also help enhance the flavor without adding more salt.
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).