Description
This Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is the kind of easy recipe that instantly makes any snack table more exciting. Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and just spicy enough, it brings together everything people love about jalapeño poppers in one shareable party appetizer. It is perfect for game day food, holiday gatherings, potluck ideas, easy appetizers, and make-ahead food ideas when you want something simple that still feels special. Serve it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies for a delicious crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 jalapeños, finely chopped
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1 tbsp ranch seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp parsley, chopped
extra jalapeño slices for garnish
crackers, pretzels, or veggies for serving
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, most of the bacon, green onions, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until fully combined.
2. Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until firm.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, and the remaining bacon.
4. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating, pressing gently so it sticks evenly.
5. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with extra jalapeño slices if desired.
6. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Do not roll the cheese ball in the coating before it is fully chilled, or the mixture can be too soft and the outside will not stick neatly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 278
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 468mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 58mg