Southwestern Recipe
Cheese, ham, onions, green peppers & jalapeños served with a side of salsa toast or biscuit.
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Ingredients
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Main Filling
Binding & Moisture
For Serving
Equipment & Finish (optional)
Method
Prep
Preheat and assemble
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to warm the assembled dish. Gather and measure all ingredients. If using fridge-cold cream cheese, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes so it softens.
If serving with toast, slice bread and butter lightly. If serving with biscuits, warm them in the oven for the last 8–10 minutes of baking.
Cook Vegetables & Ham
Add the diced ham and continue to cook 2–3 minutes until the ham is warmed and starts to brown slightly. Add the diced jalapeños and cook 30–60 seconds more to bloom their flavor. Remove the skillet from heat and let cool 2–3 minutes.
Mix Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Whisk until smooth and slightly loose. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon additional salt (adjusting from the ingredient salt if desired).
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, the sautéed ham and vegetables, and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with remaining salt if needed.
Bake or Serve Cold
For a warm, melty Southwestern spread: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish (about 8-inch) or ramekins. Smooth the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let rest 2 minutes.
For a chilled or room-temperature spread: Skip the oven and refrigerate the mixture for 20–30 minutes to firm slightly. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Toast or Warm Biscuits
If serving with toast: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon butter, and toast each slice of bread 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Cut into serving pieces.
If serving with store-bought or homemade biscuits: Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on top.
Finish & Serve
Spoon the warm or chilled Southwestern cheese and ham spread onto toast slices or into a serving bowl alongside warm biscuits. Garnish with remaining chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve salsa on the side for dipping or spooning atop each portion.
Leftovers: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through.