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Irresistible Shamrock Shaped Queso Cups Recipe for St. Patrick’s Day Party

shamrock shaped queso cups - featured image

These shamrock shaped queso cups are a festive, cheesy snack perfect for St. Patrick’s Day. They combine creamy queso with crispy golden edges for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for mild heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for greasing
  • Optional garnish: fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • Optional garnish: diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
  • Optional garnish: thinly sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, softened cream cheese, milk, diced jalapeño, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined and creamy. Add more milk if mixture is too thick.
  3. Lightly grease the baking sheet. Using a tablespoon, drop small mounds of the cheese mixture about 3 inches apart. Flatten each mound slightly with the back of the spoon.
  4. Bake for 7-9 minutes until edges are golden brown and crispy but centers remain soft and melty.
  5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press the shamrock cookie cutter gently into each melted cheese circle. Carefully lift the cutter; use a thin spatula if needed to ease edges.
  6. Cool completely on the baking sheet so the cups firm up and can be lifted without breaking.
  7. Garnish with diced tomatoes, cilantro, or green onions if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

If cheese cups spread too much, chill the cheese mixture for 15-20 minutes before baking. Watch oven carefully to avoid burning. Shape cups immediately after baking while cheese is hot and pliable. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for best melt.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso cups, shamrock shaped, St. Patrick's Day, appetizer, cheesy snack, party food, easy recipe