Toasted Baguette Slices with Spicy Chili Cheese Spread

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crunchy toasted baguette slices topped with a smooth, spicy chili-infused cheddar cheese spread, perfect for an appetizer or snack. This american-inspired snacks ready in about 25 minutes blends sliced into 1/2-inch pieces baguette, olive oil, softened cream cheese into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 10, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 10 American cuisine 150 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange 20 slices of baguette on a baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with 2 tbsp olive oil. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp.
  2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup prepared mild chili, 2 tbsp finely chopped pickled hot peppers, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  3. Step 3: Spread about 1 tbsp of the chili cheese mixture evenly over each toasted baguette slice.
  4. Step 4: Return to the oven and bake for 5 minutes until the cheese spread is warm and slightly bubbly.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately as a spicy, cheesy appetizer or snack.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Toasted Baguette Slices with Spicy Chili Cheese Spread take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Toasted Baguette Slices with Spicy Chili Cheese Spread?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Toasted Baguette Slices with Spicy Chili Cheese Spread?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Toasted Baguette Slices with Spicy Chili Cheese Spread for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 10 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 10). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Toasted Baguette Slices with Spicy Chili Cheese Spread?

American snacks like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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