Best Lunch Meats To Compliment Pepper Jack Cheese

Pepper jack cheese is a semi-soft cheese with a spicy kick. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to casseroles. With its unique flavour, pepper jack cheese pairs well with a range of lunch meats, but which ones are the best? Let's explore some of the most popular combinations to find out.

Roast beef with pepper jack cheese sauce

Pepper jack cheese is a semi-soft cheese with a smooth texture and a slightly tangy taste. It is known for its spicy flavour and its versatility in dishes. The cheese originated in the United States and is made from pasteurized cow's milk.

Now, here is a recipe for roast beef with pepper jack cheese sauce:

Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches with Pepper Jack Cheese Sauce

These hot roast beef sandwiches with pepper jack cheese sauce are perfect for a crowd and can be made ahead of time. They are great for busy nights when you don't have time to sit down for dinner, as they can be kept warm in the oven or a bag warmer.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound of thinly sliced deli roast beef (good quality)
• Soft rolls (onion rolls or any other type of roll)
• 1/2 cup grated pepper jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Milk

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the flour and stir until combined.
• Slowly pour the milk into the pan, whisking continuously, until it starts to thicken.
• Add the grated pepper jack cheese and stir until it is melted and the sauce thickens.
• Divide the roast beef between the rolls.
• Top the beef with the pepper jack cheese sauce.
• Wrap the sandwiches in foil and place them on a sheet pan.
• Warm them in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes.
• Lower the heat to 250 degrees Fahrenheit to keep them warm until serving.

These sandwiches are an easy and delicious option for feeding a crowd or for a busy night. The pepper jack cheese sauce adds a creamy and spicy kick to the roast beef sandwiches. Enjoy!

Salami with pepper jack cheese

Salami and pepper jack cheese is a classic combination that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. This flavourful duo is a popular choice for sandwiches, providing a delightful contrast of savoury and spicy notes. Here are some ideas and suggestions to elevate your salami and pepper jack cheese creations:

Sandwiches and Wraps

Sandwiches are a convenient and versatile option for lunch or a quick bite. When crafting a salami and pepper jack cheese sandwich, consider the following:

• Bread: Choose a bread that complements the flavours of the filling. Soft rolls, such as onion rolls, are a popular choice, but you can also opt for sourdough, whole wheat, or any variety you prefer.
• Toppings: Enhance your sandwich with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. You can also add a spread, such as Dijon mustard, to give it an extra kick.
• Cooking: For an extra indulgent treat, try grilling your sandwich. The melted pepper jack cheese will add a creamy texture and a slight tanginess to the sandwich.
• Accompaniments: Serve your sandwich with a side of crispy crackers or chips, and perhaps a refreshing dip like a simple guacamole.

Snacks and Appetizers

If you're looking for a more substantial snack or appetizer, consider the following ideas:

• Cheese and Charcuterie Boards: Salami and pepper jack cheese can be the stars of a delicious charcuterie board. Arrange slices of salami and pepper jack cheese on a platter with crackers, fresh or dried fruit, nuts, and spreads like honey or mustard.
• Roll-ups: Create tasty salami and pepper jack cheese roll-ups by spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or mustard on a slice of salami, then adding a stick of pepper jack cheese and rolling it up. Secure it with a toothpick, and you have a bite-sized snack!
• Skewers: Thread cubes of salami and pepper jack cheese onto a skewer, alternating with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. This makes for a colourful and tasty appetizer.

Heartier Meals

For a more filling meal, consider incorporating salami and pepper jack cheese into recipes like:

• Pizza: Create a unique pizza by using a pepper jack cheese sauce as your base and topping it with salami, vegetables, and perhaps some extra cheese.
• Pasta: Try a creamy pepper jack cheese sauce with penne pasta, and add in some sliced salami, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Burgers: Craft a juicy burger with a pepper jack cheese and salami topping. Add some crisp lettuce, a slice of tomato, and a drizzle of your favourite sauce for a mouthwatering treat.

When pairing salami with pepper jack cheese, feel free to experiment with different varieties of salami, such as hard salami or dry salami, to find your preferred combination. Remember, the key to a successful pairing is balancing the flavours and textures to create a delightful culinary experience.

Turkey with pepper jack cheese

Turkey and pepper jack cheese is a simple, spicy, and satisfying combination that can be used to make delicious sandwiches and paninis. Here are some ideas and recipes to get you started:

Grilled Turkey and Pepper Jack Cheese Sandwich

This quick and easy sandwich is perfect for those busy nights when you need a "fast meal". It only takes 10 minutes from fridge to plate! The spiciness of the pepper jack cheese pairs perfectly with the turkey, creating a delicious and satisfying sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of oatnut bread
• 2 slices of pepper jack cheese
• 2 slices of turkey lunch meat
• Butter

Directions:

• Spread butter on the outside of each slice of bread.
• Stack one slice of bread, cheese, turkey, and the second slice of bread together.
• Grill the sandwich on medium heat for 4 minutes on each side or until the bread turns a golden brown. You can use an electric frying pan or a pan on the stove.

Turkey Pepper Jack Paninis

These paninis are a great way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. They are quick, easy to transport, and full of flavour. The addition of a spicy spread made with mayo, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce gives these paninis an extra kick that pairs perfectly with the pepper jack cheese.

Ingredients:

• Ciabatta buns
• Pepper jack cheese
• Leftover turkey
• Lettuce (optional)
• Tomato (optional)
• Mayo
• Dijon mustard
• Hot sauce

Directions:

• Mix together the mayo, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce.
• Spread the spicy mayo on the Ciabatta buns.
• Add the turkey and pepper jack cheese.
• Top with the other slice of bread and spray each side with cooking spray.
• Heat in a panini maker for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
• Once cooled, add lettuce and tomato if desired, and cut the panini in half.
• Serve warm with fresh fruit or chips.

Smoked Turkey, Pepper Jack Cheese, and Basil Panini

This panini is inspired by Oprah's "Love Sandwich" and features smoked turkey, pepper jack cheese, and basil. The addition of tomato slices adds colour and flavour to the sandwich.

Ingredients:

• Sourdough bread
• Olive oil spray
• Olive oil mayo
• Pepper jack cheese, thinly sliced
• Smoked turkey or rotisserie chicken, thinly sliced
• Small tomato, thinly sliced and patted dry
• Basil

Directions:

• Brush one side of each slice of bread with olive oil.
• Spread a light coating of mayo on the reverse side of the bread.
• Stack slices of cheese, turkey, tomato, basil, and more cheese on top of the mayo-covered side of the bread.
• Cover with the remaining slice of bread, mayonnaise side down.
• Cook on a panini grill preheated to HIGH or use a heavy skillet with another skillet placed on top of the sandwich.
• Grill until the cheese melts and the bread is golden brown and toasty.
• If desired, add basil or spinach to the sandwich after cooking.

Ham with pepper jack cheese

Grilled Ham and Pepper Jack Cheese Sandwich

One popular way to enjoy ham with pepper jack cheese is in a grilled cheese sandwich. The key to this sandwich is using quality ingredients, such as thick-cut ham, real cheese, and your preferred type of bread. Instead of butter, spread mayonnaise on the outside of the bread to create a crispy texture. Simply cook the sandwich in a pan over medium heat until the bread is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.

Shishito Peppers with Ham and Pepper Jack Cheese

For a unique appetizer, try stuffing shishito peppers with pepper jack cheese and ham. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut a slit in each pepper, remove the ribs and seeds, and then stuff them with thin strips of cheese and ham. Brush the peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the peppers blister and soften, and the cheese melts.

Breakfast or Brunch Option

For a hearty breakfast or brunch, prepare a grilled cheese sandwich with ham, pepper jack cheese, and a fried egg. The addition of a fried egg takes this sandwich to the next level. Use homemade bread, such as Ukrainian paska, and a sweet hot mustard to elevate the flavours. Fry the ham until crispy and cook the egg to your desired doneness. Assemble the sandwich and cook in a panini press or frying pan until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.

Customization and Pairing Ideas

When creating dishes with ham and pepper jack cheese, feel free to experiment with different types of ham, such as Black Forest ham or leftover holiday ham. You can also adjust the spice level of the pepper jack cheese to suit your taste buds. This combination goes well with various side dishes, including dill pickles, potato chips, fruit, or a simple green salad.

Chicken with pepper jack cheese

Chicken with Pico de Gallo and Pepper Jack Cheese:

This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts cooked in a skillet with the creamy spice of pepper jack cheese and the refreshing flavour of pico de gallo. Start by preparing the pico de gallo, which you can make yourself or buy ready-made. Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper or a Southwest seasoning blend. Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat some canola oil in a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Top each piece of chicken with a slice of pepper jack cheese and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Finally, top each chicken breast with a generous scoop of pico de gallo and enjoy!

Pepper Jack Crack Chicken:

This addictive dish layers the slightly spicy pepper jack cheese with cooling ranch dressing and crispy bacon over chicken breasts. You can control the spiciness by choosing a milder brand of pepper jack cheese or opting for regular Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese. Fry the bacon until crispy, then set it aside and reduce the heat. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with a mixture of salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken for 8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Spread ranch dressing on each piece of chicken, followed by a slice of cheese. Sprinkle with bacon, add another slice of cheese, and cook for 5 more minutes. Top with the remaining bacon and chopped green onions before serving.

Pepperjack Chicken Casserole:

This easy-to-make casserole is a flavour sensation! It calls for chicken breasts, butter, cream of chicken soup, pepper jack cheese, mushrooms (optional), and seasoned poultry stuffing. Simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish, starting with butter, followed by chicken, mushrooms, cheese, soup mixed with milk, and finally, the stuffing mixed with melted butter. Bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the casserole is bubbling. This dish pairs well with rice or pasta.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pepper Jack Cheese:

For a quick and tasty sandwich, try grilling chicken and peppers on soft rolls with pepper jack cheese. You can also add Dijon mustard and other toppings of your choice.

Chicken Fajita Pasta:

This recipe combines chicken, pepper jack cheese, cumin, chilli powder, yellow bell pepper, and other fajita-inspired ingredients with pasta for a unique and tasty dish.

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