Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further! This Clearman's Cheese Spread recipe is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this homemade spread is unbelievably simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It's the kind of delicious dish that's perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy evening at home. Get ready to elevate your snack game!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crackers, vegetables, or bread for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese: In a medium-sized bowl, place the softened cream cheese. Make sure it's truly soft and at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Combine Cheeses: Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to the bowl with the cream cheese.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and green onions. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Seasoning Magic: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the cheese spread.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the spread to chill. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your delicious Clearman's Cheese Spread with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, vegetable sticks (like carrots and celery), or even potato chips.
Tips for Cheese Spread Success:
- Soften that Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. You can speed up the softening process by microwaving it for short intervals, but be careful not to overheat it.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of pepper jack and Colby Jack would also be delicious!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. A dash of dried dill or chives would be fantastic additions.
- Make it Ahead: This cheese spread can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheese Spread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Bacon Cheese Spread: Crumble cooked bacon and stir it into the cheese spread for a savory twist.
- Roasted Red Pepper Cheese Spread: Add 1/4 cup of roasted red peppers (diced) for a smoky sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on serving size and crackers/vegetables used)
Fat: High (due to cheese and mayonnaise)
Protein: Moderate
Carbohydrates: Low to Moderate (depending on serving accompaniments)
Note: This is an approximation and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and serving size.
This Clearman's Cheese Spread is a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor. It's perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a staple in your recipe book. Enjoy!