Description
This Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapeños, this cheese ball is chilled to perfection and coated with extra bacon, jalapeños, and green onions for a delightful burst of taste and texture.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Base
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- Additional chopped bacon
- Additional chopped jalapeños
- Additional chopped green onions
Instructions
- Mix the Cheese Ball Base: In a large bowl, stir the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, finely chopped jalapeños, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape and Chill: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap and use the wrap to help shape it into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the cheese ball to firm up and meld the flavors.
- Coat and Serve: Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in a mixture of additional chopped bacon, jalapeños, and green onions. This adds extra flavor, color, and texture. Place on a serving plate and serve with assorted veggies, crackers, or chips.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping.
- The cheese ball can be made a day in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
- Use cooked, drained bacon to avoid excess grease in the cheese ball.
- Serve with an assortment of dippers like crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the level of spiciness.
