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Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball

Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball

Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is an irresistible snack that combines creamy cheese, zesty jalapeños, and crispy bacon in a playful football shape.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 21 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Snacks & Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

Cheese Mixture
  • 16 oz cream cheese perfect for a rich and creamy base.
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded) adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the spice.
  • ½ cup Monterey jack cheese (shredded) brings a mild creaminess and is great for stretching.
  • ½ cup pickled jalapeños (chopped) infuses the mixture with zesty heat and tang.
  • 1 pcs fresh jalapeño (deseeded & finely diced) adds a fresh crunch and extra spice.
  • ¼ cup green onion (sliced) introduces a mild onion flavor that brightens the mix.
  • ½ tsp garlic powder enhances the depth of the cheese flavors.
  • 8-10 slices bacon (cooked & cooled) provides a crispy, savory crunch that balances the creaminess.
Coating
  • ¼ cup pecans (finely chopped) gives a crunchy and nutty outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy inside.
Laces
  • Extra Monterey jack cheese use this to create realistic-looking laces on your football-shaped cheese ball.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Tray

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine chopped pecans, fresh jalapeño, and half of the cooked bacon in a bowl. This mixture adds a fantastic crunch and kick, so set it aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Blend cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, green onion, garlic powder, and the rest of the bacon in a larger bowl. Ensure everything is well combined until creamy and flavorful.
  3. Form the mixture into a ball, placing it on a tray. Use your hands to shape the cheese mixture into a football shape, adding to the fun presentation right from the start.
  4. Coat the ball by sprinkling the chopped pecan mixture all around. Press gently to help it adhere well—this creates a beautiful contrast with the creamy center.
  5. Create the 'laces' by cutting one long strip and four smaller strips from leftover Monterey jack cheese. Lay these across the top of the cheese ball for a realistic football touch.
  6. Serve immediately with your favorite crackers or chips for a delightful snack. Your guests will love diving into this fun and flavorful treat right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature and chill the cheese ball for 30 minutes before serving.

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