Move over cheesecake! Today we’re featuring all of the savory ways you can use this versatile cheese. I love cream cheese for so many reasons, but here are 27 of my favorite ways to use it, in no particular order.
Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers
Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeno Poppers are a creative and spicy twist on classic jalapeno poppers. They combine the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the heat of jalapenos, creating a unique and tasty appetizer.
Get the recipe: Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers
Traeger Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Traeger Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish. It combines smoked beef strips, sautéed peppers and onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich but presented as a casserole, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prepping. It’s versatile and can be adjusted to personal tastes or dietary needs, and it’s also keto-friendly and gluten-free when served without a roll.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Traeger Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevating the classic asparagus side dish, this recipe involves wrapping asparagus in bacon and grilling it on a Traeger grill. This method infuses the asparagus with smoky flavors while ensuring the bacon is perfectly crispy. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to add a gourmet touch to their meal with minimal effort. The combination of smoky, crispy bacon with the fresh, green taste of asparagus creates a delightful contrast.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Smoked Whipped Feta Dip
This smoked whipped feta dip combines the creamy texture of feta with a smoky flavor, creating a unique and tasty appetizer, ideal for pairing with crackers or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Whipped Feta Dip
Smoked White Chicken Chili
This smoked white chicken chili offers a lighter, yet flavorful version of traditional chili, with a smoky twist. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a hearty but less heavy chili.
Get the Recipe: Smoked White Chicken Chili
Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers
A smoky twist on jalapeño poppers, this recipe uses smoked beef bacon for an extra flavorful and meaty appetizer. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a spicy, smoky snack.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers
Traeger Armadillo Eggs Recipe
This inventive recipe involves stuffing jalapeños with cheese, wrapping them in sausage meat, and smoking them. It’s a flavorful, spicy appetizer that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Armadillo Eggs Recipe
Bacon Ranch Smoked Cream Cheese
Combining the flavors of bacon and ranch with cream cheese, this smoked spread is a flavorful addition to crackers or bread. It’s an ideal choice for a unique and tasty appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Smoked Cream Cheese
Traeger Smoked Jalapeño Jack Juicy Lucy
A Juicy Lucy burger with a twist, featuring smoked jalapeno jack cheese for a spicy kick. It’s a must-try for burger enthusiasts looking for a new flavor experience.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Jalapeño Jack Juicy Lucy
Smoked Hog-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
A creative appetizer, these jalapeno poppers are filled with rich smoked hog meat. The combination of spicy jalapenos and smoky flavors make these poppers a standout snack for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Hog-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
Smoked Chili Crunch Cream Cheese
A flavorful and spicy cream cheese spread, infused with smoked chili, perfect for bagels or as a dip.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chili Crunch Cream Cheese
Smoked Jalapeño Popper Cream Cheese
This innovative recipe offers a smoky twist on jalapeño poppers, incorporating cream cheese for a creamy and spicy appetizer or snack.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeño Popper Cream Cheese
Smoked Buffalo Cream Cheese
This recipe puts a spicy, smoky twist on cream cheese, infusing it with buffalo sauce for a bold and creamy spread, perfect for dipping or spreading.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Buffalo Cream Cheese
Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip
This rich and creamy crab dip is given a smoky twist, making it a luxurious and flavorful appetizer for seafood enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip
Halloween Smoked Bacon Jam Cream Cheese
A festive and flavorful spread combining smoked bacon jam and cream cheese, perfect for Halloween or any occasion needing a savory, smoky treat.
Get the Recipe: Halloween Smoked Bacon Jam Cream Cheese
Smoked Garlic Pig Shots
A creative appetizer that combines smoky flavors with the richness of garlic, these pig shots are a unique and flavorful snack.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Pig Shots
Double Smoked Artichoke Dip
A rich and creamy artichoke dip with the added depth of double smoking. It’s a fantastic choice for a flavorful and unique appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Double Smoked Artichoke Dip
Traeger Smoked Cream Cheese
A simple yet flavorful smoked cream cheese recipe, perfect as a spread or dip for those who appreciate a smoky, creamy addition to their snacks.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Cream Cheese
Traeger Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of eggnog with the creamy texture of cheesecake, creating a unique dessert perfect for the holidays. It’s a delightful twist on classic cheesecake.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe
Spinach Dip Rollups
Combining the comfort of spinach dip with the convenience of rollups, this recipe is great for parties. It’s a creative way to serve a beloved dip in a handheld form.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Dip Rollups
Smoked Mashed Potatoes
A smoky version of classic mashed potatoes, offering a unique twist on a traditional side dish. They’re perfect for those who enjoy a smoky flavor in their comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mashed Potatoes
Traeger Spinach Artichoke Dip
A smoked version of the beloved spinach artichoke dip, prepared in a Traeger grill. This recipe adds a smoky depth to the creamy and cheesy flavors, making it a standout appetizer for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Spinach Artichoke Dip
Traeger Jalapeno Poppers
A smoky, spicy twist on jalapeno poppers, cooked in a Traeger grill. This version brings out the rich flavors of the peppers and cheese with a hint of smoke.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Jalapeno Poppers
Smoked Salmon Dip
A rich and savory dip featuring smoked salmon. This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers and works well as a spread for crackers or bread at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip
Creamy Green Chile & Cheese Dip
This dip is a creamy and spicy blend of cheese and green chiles. It’s perfect for parties or as a flavorful snack to enjoy with chips or veggies.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Chile & Cheese Dip
Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole
A quick and easy casserole that captures the flavors of a cheeseburger, made conveniently in an Instant Pot. It’s perfect for a comforting and satisfying family meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole
Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip
A sophisticated and flavorful dip combining smoked salmon and cream cheese. It’s perfect for entertaining or as a luxurious addition to a snack spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.