Things are heating up in the Trader Joe’s cheese section this summer! Made for us by a renowned Wisconsin creamery that’s known for their sharp, rich Cheddars, a trio of hot chili peppers is mixed into every batch of Trader Joe’s Smoked Ghost Pepper Cheddar Cheese before the whole wheel is smoked over aromatic hickory. Together, the capsaicin-laden combo of jalapeño, habanero, and fiery hot Ghost Pepper, along with its subtly smoky tones give this newest addition to our Spotlight Cheese program a uniquely savory and delightfully (though not overwhelmingly) spicy flavor profile.

A treat for true heat-seekers and less experienced spice fans alike, our Smoked Ghost Pepper Cheddar can be enjoyed totally on its own, or as part of a larger cheese board or charcuterie spread, where it will add an elegant element of contrasting heat and smoke. We find that it’s especially suited, however, for shredding and sprinkling over and into other savory dishes and snacks. Try it on a chili dog, rolled into a hearty breakfast burrito, or folding into a full-flavored quesadilla. Just be sure to seek out this Smoked Ghost Pepper Cheddar before it’s too late, because supplies are limited. To paraphrase an old adage, the cheese that burns twice as hot lasts half as long on the shelf!