Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese is a spicy, flavorful twist on a classic spread. Roasting the jalapeños brings out a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and bold spices. It’s perfect for dipping or spreading on your favorite crackers and sandwiches.

Ingredients
- 2 large jalapeños (stems removed, sliced in half, seeded)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Place the halved jalapeños on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, tossing lightly to coat.
- Step 3: Roast the jalapeños for about 12 minutes until they are soft and slightly charred.
- Step 4: Once cooled, combine the roasted jalapeños with the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Step 5: Stir in Dijon mustard, dried chives, dried parsley, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth and well mixed.
- Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then transfer the mixture to a serving dish.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder spread, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for extra freshness.
- Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.
Storage
Store the cream cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for easier spreading. You can also scoop portions onto a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before use.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs but use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor than dried ones.
Is this spread gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe option if you are avoiding gluten.
PrintRoasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese Recipe
This Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese recipe is a spicy, creamy appetizer perfect for parties or a flavorful snack. Roasting the jalapeños adds a smoky depth to the cream cheese mixture, which is enhanced with Dijon mustard, herbs, and spices for a bold and vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup, serves 6-8 as a spread 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Roasted Jalapeños
- 2 large jalapeños (stems removed, sliced in half, seeded)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the jalapeños, which helps bring out their smoky flavor.
- Prepare the jalapeños: Place the halved and seeded jalapeños on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toss lightly to coat evenly.
- Roast the jalapeños: Roast in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes until they become soft and develop a slight char, enhancing their flavor.
- Cool and combine: Allow the roasted jalapeños to cool slightly. Then, in a mixing bowl, combine them with softened cream cheese.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the Dijon mustard, dried chives, dried parsley, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Adjust and serve: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Transfer the creamed jalapeño mixture to a serving dish and serve as a flavorful spread or dip.
Notes
- To reduce heat, ensure to remove seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- For a smokier taste, consider roasting jalapeños on a grill instead of the oven.
- This cream cheese spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
- You can substitute fresh herbs for dried if available, using about 3 times the amount.
Keywords: jalapeño cream cheese, spicy cream cheese spread, roasted jalapeño dip, party appetizer, cowboy cream cheese

