25 Best Ways to Use Red Pepper Jelly

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

Wondering what to eat with pepper jelly? Read on! Pepper jelly, with its perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, is surprisingly one of the most versatile condiments that can elevate a variety of dishes. 

Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory combinations or crave a hint of heat in your meals, pepper jelly has something to offer.

Hot pepper jelly is a condiment that combines the sweetness of fruit jelly or jam with the heat of chili peppers, creating a unique spread. It typically consists of green bell peppers or red bell peppers, chili peppers, sugar, and pectin, which helps the jelly achieve its gel-like consistency. The result is a sweet and spicy flavor profile that can add a really nice kick to dishes.

The specific types and combinations of peppers used in pepper jelly can vary, allowing for a range of heat levels from mild to hot. Some variations may include even more ingredients like vinegar, onions, or garlic to enhance the complexity of flavors. If you like spicy foods, you’ll love adding spicy red pepper jelly to your recipes! Here are some ideas for what to eat with red or green pepper jelly.

Appetizers With Pepper Jelly

Start your meal with a burst of flavor by incorporating pepper jelly into your favorite appetizers if all sorts of different ways!

1. Crackers and Cheese

Spread pepper jelly over your favorite crackers, like ritz crackers, and pair them with your favorite cheeses such as brie, goat cheese, or cream cheese to make a really easy appetizer. You could make this into a charcuterie board too if you wanted to step up your platter!

2. Stuffed Jalapeños

This appetizer is a southern classic! Fill jalapeño peppers with cream cheese, wrap them in bacon, and bake until crispy. Top with a dollop of hot jelly.

3. Meat Skewers

Glaze grilled or broiled meat skewers (chicken, beef, or shrimp) with pepper jelly for a sweet and spicy finish.

4. Vegetable Spring Rolls

Roll a combination of fresh vegetables in rice paper and serve with enough pepper jelly for dipping.

5. Egg Rolls

Serve egg rolls with a side of pepper jelly for dipping, adding a sweet and spicy element to the crunchy rolls.

6. Baked Brie

Wrap a wheel of brie in puff pastry, bake until golden, and top with a generous spoonful of homemade pepper jelly spread. This is the easiest appetizer and one of those great recipes that is always a huge hit!

7. Quesadillas

Spread pepper jelly inside a cheese quesadilla for a unique twist on this delicious party appetizer. Serve these with sour cream on the side.

8. Bruschetta

Top toasted baguette slices with a layer of cream cheese or goat cheese and a spoonful of pepper jelly sauce for a quick appetizer. The best part is that this recipe is incredibly easy and very popular!

9. Sausage Rolls

Wrap cocktail sausages in puff pastry, bake until golden, and serve with a jar of pepper jelly for dipping. This is a delicious recipe that will disappear fast!

10. Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Wrap water chestnuts in bacon, secure with toothpicks, bake until crispy, and serve with a side of pepper jelly.

Cheese Pairings With Pepper Jelly

Pairing pepper jelly with various cheeses can create a symphony of flavors on your palate. The sweetness of the jelly complements the richness of the cheeses, creating a delightful harmony of tastes.

1. Brie

The mild and creamy flavor of brie complements the sweetness of pepper jelly, creating a luxurious and balanced pairing.

2. Goat Cheese

The tangy and slightly earthy notes of goat cheese contrast beautifully with the sweetness of pepper jelly, offering a perfect balance.

3. Smoked Gouda

The smoky notes of smoked gouda add an extra layer of complexity to the sweet and spicy flavors of pepper jelly.

4. Blue Cheese

The sharp and pungent character of blue cheese can stand up to the sweet and spicy profile of pepper jelly, creating a dynamic and flavorful combination.

5. Camembert

Similar to brie, camembert’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent companion for the sweet and spicy notes of pepper jelly.

Sandwiches and Wraps With Pepper Jelly

Take your sandwiches and wraps to the next level by adding a dollop of pepper jelly. Experiment with different types of bread and fillings to find your perfect combination with this spicy jam!

1. Turkey and Brie Sandwich

Sliced turkey, creamy brie cheese, arugula, and a generous spread of pepper jelly on your favorite bread make an easy recipe that you can throw together quickly!

2. Grilled Cheese with Pepper Jelly

A classic grilled cheese sandwich with the addition of a layer of pepper jelly for a sweet and spicy kick. This might be your new favorite way to enjoy spicy pepper jelly!

3. Chicken and Goat Cheese Wrap

Grilled chicken, crumbled goat cheese, mixed greens, and pepper jelly wrapped in a tortilla. This is a good recipe to use for packed lunches for work.

4. Ham and Swiss Panini

Thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, and a dollop of pepper jelly pressed between slices of crusty bread. These basic ingredients turn a classic sandwich into a new and bold-flavored sandwich!

5. Pulled Pork Sliders with Pepper Jelly

Slow-cooked pulled pork topped with coleslaw and a drizzle of pepper jelly on mini slider buns. The spicy and sweet jelly makes these sliders memorable!

6. BLT with Pepper Jelly

The classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich is elevated with a smear of spicy jelly.

7. Roast Beef and Cheddar Sub

Thinly sliced roast beef, sharp cheddar cheese, lettuce, and pepper jelly in a sub roll.

8. Caprese Sandwich with Pepper Jelly

Fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, basil leaves, and a spread of pepper jelly on ciabatta bread.

9. Smoked Salmon Bagel

Smoked salmon, cream cheese, red onion, and a layer of pepper jelly on a toasted bagel. 

10. Pimento Cheese and Ham Sandwich

Pimento cheese, thinly sliced ham, and pepper jelly between two slices of bread.