Description

Celebrate the holidays with this festive Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath, a delightful blend of creamy cheeses and zesty taco flavors. Perfect for gatherings, this eye-catching appetizer combines cream cheese, Monterey Jack, and taco seasoning, accented by fresh cilantro, green onions, and a colorful tomato-jalapeno garnish to create a flavorful and visually stunning wreath-shaped cheese ball.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Mixture

1 (16 oz) package cream cheese, softened
8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 packet taco seasoning
1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed (divided)
4 green onions, roughly chopped (divided)
1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers (divided)

Garnish

1 medium Roma tomato, cored and diced
2 tbsp finely chopped white onion
1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped

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Instructions

Prepare Bowl: Line a 16-ounce bowl with plastic wrap, allowing extra to hang over the edges for easy removal later. This will help shape and unmold the cheese ball smoothly.
Mix Cheese and Seasonings: In a food processor, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack, and taco seasoning until the mixture is well blended. Add half of the cilantro, green onions, and diced green chile peppers. Pulse a few times to incorporate the herbs and chiles evenly without fully pureeing, to maintain flecks of greenery and texture.
Shape and Chill: Transfer the cheese mixture into the prepared bowl. Press it down to smooth and compact the mixture into a round shape. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.
Create Wreath Shape: Once chilled, invert the cheese ball onto a serving platter and gently peel off the plastic wrap. Use a shot glass or spoon to carve out a small hole in the center to form a classic wreath shape.
Decorate: Finely chop the remaining cilantro and sprinkle evenly over the top of the wreath. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomato, chopped white onion, and finely chopped jalapeno pepper. Arrange this mixture in a ring around the wreath as a festive and colorful garnish.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is properly softened before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
Adjust the amount of jalapeno to taste for desired heat level.
This cheese ball can be prepared a day ahead; just cover tightly and keep refrigerated.
Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping.
Use plastic wrap generously when lining the bowl to easily lift the cheese ball out.