Jalapeno Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe

I’m super stoked to share my go-to jalapeno bacon cheese ball, cuz it’s this crazy mix of cheesy, spicy, and crispy flavors that totally elevates any get-together.

So here’s what you do: in a big bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, sour cream, and mayo until it’s all blended up real good. Then, stir in your chopped pickled jalapenos and crumbled bacon evenly – don’t be afraid to get your hands messy! Next, add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and mix it well so all the flavors come together nice and easy. If you’re into a little extra crunch and color, fold in the chopped green onions. Scoop the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a ball with your hands, then wrap it tight in plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours so the flavors really meld together. When you’re ready to serve, let it sit out for a bit to soften up, and then dish it out with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies. Enjoy your epic cheese ball with your friends and fam!

I love preppin my Jalapeno Bacon Cheese Ball with cream cheese, cheddar, tangy sour cream and mayo. I mix in pickled jalapenos and crumbled bacon with garlic and onion powder, salt and pepper, plus optional green onions.

I think it’s high in protein and calcium and packed with bold flavors.

Ingredients

• Cream Cheese: Provides smoothness and a rich base, giving the ball a creamy texture and slight tang.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is high in protein and essential nutrients, giving the ball a sharp flavor.
• Pickled Jalapenos: Jalapenos pack a spicy, tangy punch that livens up each bite perfectly.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy, smoky flavor while bringing extra protein to the mix.
• Green Onions: Green onions offer a fresh crunch and mild sharpness that balances the richer flavors.
• Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: They create a smooth blend, adding tang and extra richness overall.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Garlic and onion powder bring aromatic depth, subtly accentuating the cheese and bacon notes.

Ingredient Quantities

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped pickled jalapenos
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

How to Make this

1. In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until they’re well blended

2. Stir in the chopped pickled jalapenos and crumbled bacon evenly throughout the mixture

3. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper then mix thoroughly so all the flavours come together

4. If you like a little extra crunch and colour, fold in the chopped green onions

5. Scoop the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a ball with your hands

6. Wrap the cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours so the flavours can really meld

7. Before serving, take it out of the fridge to let it soften slightly, then serve with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies

8. Enjoy your jalapeno bacon cheese ball with your friends and family as a fun appetizer or party dish

Equipment Needed

1. A large mixing bowl
2. A sturdy mixing spoon or spatula
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. A cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping ingredients
5. Parchment paper to shape the cheese ball
6. Plastic wrap to secure the cheese ball
7. A refrigerator for chilling the finished product

FAQ

• Q: Can I use low-fat dairy for this recipe?
  A: Sure, you can use low-fat versions but the flavor and texture might not be as rich. Stick with regular if you want the best taste.
• Q: Can I bake this cheese ball instead of serving it cold?
  A: You could try baking it in a low oven for a bit but it might change the texture. It’s mostly meant to be served cold so i wouldnt recommend baking unless you really want to experiment.
• Q: How many servings does it make?
  A: Usually it serves about 10-12 people as an appetizer. Depends on how hungry everyone is.
• Q: Can I add more spicy heat to the recipe?
  A: Yep, if you like it extra spicy, add more pickled jalapenos or even some diced fresh ones. Just keep in mind that more heat will slightly overpower the creamy flavors.
• Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  A: Absolutely, its best to mix it up and let it chill in the fridge for a few hours. This gives the flavors time to blend together.

Jalapeno Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you dont have cream cheese, you can use neufchatel cheese for a lighter twist
• You can swap sour cream with plain greek yogurt to get a tangy vibe
• If you wanna mix up the flavor, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar
• For a leaner option, turkey bacon works fine instead of the regular bacon

Pro Tips

1. When you’re working with the cream cheese make sure its really softened so it blends in smooth, sometimes if it’s too hard it wont mix well with the other ingredients making your cheese ball lumpy
2. Don’t skimp on chilling time – give it at least 2 hours in the fridge so that all the flavors have time to mix together. If you can wait a bit longer its even better cause the flavors really develop
3. Toast your bacon until its extra crispy before crumbling it, that way you get extra crunch and a nice smoky flavor which elevates the whole dish
4. Always taste as you mix in the seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you feel like it’s missing something feel free to adjust it a bit until you get the flavor you like best