Description
This spicy, creamy, and ultra-cheesy Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is packed with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh jalapeños, then coated in a crunchy, flavorful mix. Perfect for parties, game nights, or holiday gatherings, serve it with crackers, veggies, or chips for the ultimate appetizer!
Ingredients
For the Cheese Ball:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 Tbsp sour cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 large jalapeños, seeds/stems removed, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 3 strips cooked bacon, chopped
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- 2 strips cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeds/stems removed, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- ⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the cheese mixture:
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
Add garlic powder, jalapeños, shredded cheddar, bacon, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2️⃣ Shape the cheese ball:
Lay two long strips of plastic wrap in an ‘X’ shape on a flat surface.
Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and bring up the edges of the plastic wrap.
Twist and tighten to form a ball shape.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to firm up.
3️⃣ Prepare the coating:
Spread the bacon, jalapeño, cheddar, green onions, and pecans on a flat surface.
4️⃣ Coat the cheese ball:
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating ingredients, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
5️⃣ Serve & enjoy!
Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter.
Serve with crackers, celery sticks, bell peppers, or pork rinds.
Notes
- Make it spicier! Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Prefer it milder? Use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh ones for a tangy twist.
- No nuts? Swap pecans for crushed pretzels or crispy fried onions for a crunchy texture.
- Make ahead: This cheese ball stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge—just roll in the coating before serving!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8-10