Bettergoods Pepper Jelly: Walmart’s Secret Weapon for Deliciously Easy Recipes
Walmart’s new Bettergoods line is making waves, and one product in particular is stealing the show: their pepper jelly. This isn’t your grandma’s overly sweet, one-dimensional jelly. Bettergoods has crafted a pepper jelly that boasts a perfect balance of sweet heat, making it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this pepper jelly can elevate your dishes with minimal effort. This article will explore the versatility of Walmart’s Bettergoods pepper jelly and provide several delicious recipes to inspire your culinary adventures.
## What Makes Bettergoods Pepper Jelly So Special?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s understand what makes this pepper jelly stand out. Most pepper jellies offer sweetness first, with a hint of spice as an afterthought. Bettergoods, however, has achieved a harmonious blend. The sweetness is present but not overpowering, allowing the vibrant pepper flavors to shine through. The heat level is moderate, providing a pleasant kick without being overwhelming. This balance makes it an excellent ingredient for various culinary applications, from appetizers to main courses and even desserts.
* **The Perfect Balance:** Sweetness and spice are perfectly balanced, creating a complex and nuanced flavor profile.
* **Versatile Ingredient:** It can be used in sweet, savory, and even dessert dishes.
* **Easy to Use:** No special skills or techniques are required. Simply open the jar and start experimenting.
* **Affordable:** Part of the Bettergoods line, it is budget-friendly, making gourmet flavors accessible to everyone.
* **Readily Available:** Sold at Walmart, it’s easily accessible for most shoppers.
## Must-Try Recipes with Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
Here are several recipes that showcase the versatility of Bettergoods pepper jelly. Each recipe includes detailed instructions and tips for achieving the best results. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these easy-to-make, flavor-packed dishes.
### 1. Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip
This classic appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or last-minute parties.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* Crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for serving
**Instructions:**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and pepper jelly. Using a fork or electric mixer, blend until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
2. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. You can optionally chill the dip for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, but this is not required.
3. Serve with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or vegetables.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spice it up:** For a spicier dip, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
* **Add some tang:** A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavor of the dip.
* **Make it festive:** Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color.
* **Cheese variations:** Try using Neufchatel cheese instead of cream cheese for a slightly lighter option.
### 2. Pepper Jelly Glazed Chicken Wings
Elevate your chicken wings with a sweet and spicy glaze made with Bettergoods pepper jelly. These wings are perfect for game day, parties, or a casual weeknight dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds chicken wings
* 1/2 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
3. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. While the wings are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the pepper jelly, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the jelly is melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the pepper jelly glaze over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
7. Return the wings to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
8. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Grilling:** Grill the wings instead of baking them for a smoky flavor. Brush with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
* **Air Fryer:** Air fry the wings for a quicker cooking time. Follow the same glazing instructions.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of pepper jelly to control the heat level. For a milder flavor, use less jelly.
* **Add some heat:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for extra spice.
### 3. Pepper Jelly and Brie Bites
These elegant and easy-to-make appetizers are perfect for holiday parties or special occasions. The combination of creamy brie and sweet and spicy pepper jelly is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
* 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into small cubes
* 1/4 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut the pastry into small squares (approximately 1.5-2 inches each).
3. Place the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Top each square with a cube of brie cheese and a small dollop of Bettergoods Pepper Jelly.
5. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the brie is melted.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Other cheeses:** Try using Camembert or goat cheese instead of brie.
* **Fruit additions:** Add a thin slice of apple or pear to each bite for extra flavor and texture.
* **Herb garnish:** Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a touch of elegance.
* **Make ahead:** Assemble the bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
### 4. Pepper Jelly Glazed Pork Tenderloin
This recipe elevates pork tenderloin to a whole new level. The pepper jelly glaze adds a beautiful sheen and a delicious sweet and spicy flavor that perfectly complements the pork.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pork tenderloin (about 1-1.5 pounds)
* 1/2 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the pepper jelly, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
4. Place the pork tenderloin on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the pork tenderloin with the pepper jelly glaze. Reserve some of the glaze for later.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
7. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the pork tenderloin with the remaining glaze.
8. Let the pork tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Marinating:** Marinate the pork tenderloin in the glaze for at least 30 minutes before baking for even more flavor.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for extra heat.
* **Serve with:** Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
* **Grilling:** Grill the pork tenderloin instead of baking it for a smoky flavor. Brush with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
### 5. Pepper Jelly Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level with a smear of Bettergoods pepper jelly. The sweet and spicy jelly adds a surprising twist to this classic comfort food.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of bread (sourdough, cheddar, or your favorite)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
* 1-2 tablespoons Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
**Instructions:**
1. Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Top with one slice of cheese, followed by the Bettergoods Pepper Jelly, then the other slice of cheese.
4. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Slice in half and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Cheese variations:** Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination. Gruyere, Havarti, and provolone are all great options.
* **Add some protein:** Add sliced ham, bacon, or turkey to the sandwich for a heartier meal.
* **Vegetable additions:** Add sliced tomatoes, avocado, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pepper jelly for extra heat.
### 6. Pepper Jelly Baked Brie
Similar to the Brie Bites, but on a grander scale, this baked brie is the ultimate party appetizer. It’s gooey, decadent, and packed with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (8-ounce) wheel of brie cheese
* 1/4 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* 1 tablespoon chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
* Crackers or baguette slices, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the brie wheel on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Score the top of the brie wheel in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the cheese melt more evenly and allows the pepper jelly to seep in.
4. Spread the Bettergoods Pepper Jelly evenly over the top of the brie.
5. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts, if desired.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey.
7. Let cool slightly before serving with crackers or baguette slices.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Wine Pairing:** Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
* **Alternative Toppings:** Try dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or a drizzle of honey instead of nuts.
* **Wrap in Pastry:** For an extra special presentation, wrap the brie in puff pastry before baking.
* **Microwave Option:** For a quick and easy appetizer, microwave the brie on high for 1-2 minutes, or until softened. Top with pepper jelly and serve.
### 7. Pepper Jelly Vinaigrette
Add a sweet and spicy kick to your salads with this simple vinaigrette. It’s perfect for leafy greens, grilled vegetables, or even as a marinade for chicken or fish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Bettergoods Pepper Jelly, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
4. Shake well before using.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Herb Infusion:** Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of pepper jelly to control the sweetness and spice level.
* **Lemon Juice:** Substitute lemon juice for apple cider vinegar for a brighter flavor.
* **Garlic:** Add a minced clove of garlic for a more savory vinaigrette.
### 8. Pepper Jelly Bruschetta
A twist on the classic Italian appetizer, this bruschetta features toasted bread topped with creamy goat cheese and a dollop of Bettergoods Pepper Jelly. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. Spread the softened goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with a dollop of Bettergoods Pepper Jelly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra layer of sweetness and tang.
* **Roasted Red Peppers:** Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
* **Prosciutto:** Top with a thin slice of prosciutto for a salty and savory element.
* **Garlic Rub:** Rub the toasted baguette slices with a clove of garlic for added flavor.
### 9. Pepper Jelly on Hamburgers
Yes, you read that right! A spoonful of pepper jelly on your hamburger can transform it from ordinary to extraordinary. The sweetness and spice complement the savory burger perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* Hamburger buns
* Ground beef patties
* Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)
* Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles (optional)
* Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
**Instructions:**
1. Grill or pan-fry the ground beef patties to your desired level of doneness.
2. During the last minute of cooking, top the patties with cheese and let it melt.
3. Assemble the hamburgers on the buns with your desired toppings.
4. Add a spoonful of Bettergoods Pepper Jelly on top of the cheese.
5. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Bacon:** Add bacon for an even more indulgent burger.
* **Caramelized Onions:** Top with caramelized onions for extra sweetness and depth of flavor.
* **Spicy Mayo:** Add a spicy mayo for an extra kick.
* **Jalapenos:** Add sliced jalapenos for even more heat.
### 10. Pepper Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
Who says pepper jelly can’t be used in desserts? These thumbprint cookies are a delightful surprise, with a sweet and spicy filling that will tantalize your taste buds.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
8. Fill each indentation with a small amount of Bettergoods Pepper Jelly.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
10. Let cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Nutty Flavor:** Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a brighter flavor.
* **Chocolate Drizzle:** Drizzle with melted chocolate after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
* **Other Jams:** Experiment with other jams or preserves for different flavor combinations.
## Beyond Recipes: Creative Uses for Bettergoods Pepper Jelly
Beyond these specific recipes, Bettergoods pepper jelly can be used in countless other ways. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:
* **Cheese Board Accompaniment:** Add a jar of pepper jelly to your cheese board for a sweet and spicy contrast to the rich cheeses.
* **Sandwich Spread:** Use it as a spread on sandwiches instead of mustard or mayonnaise.
* **Meat Glaze:** Use it as a glaze for roasted chicken, ham, or lamb.
* **Pizza Topping:** Add a dollop to your homemade pizza for a sweet and spicy kick.
* **Cocktail Ingredient:** Use it to create unique and flavorful cocktails.
## Conclusion: Bettergoods Pepper Jelly is a Kitchen Staple
Walmart’s Bettergoods pepper jelly is more than just a condiment; it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate your cooking to new heights. With its perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s easy to incorporate into a wide variety of dishes, from appetizers to desserts. So, grab a jar (or two!) and start experimenting. You’ll be amazed at the delicious possibilities that await.