I am absolutely in love with this Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball because it’s the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick and a hint of smoky bacon. Plus, it’s such a crowd-pleaser at get-togethers, making me look like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat!
I adore the tangy creaminess of my Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Ball, which combines 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, and a beautiful blend of crumbled bacon and finely minced jalapeños. Spicy, delicious, and just 107 calories per serving, they’re perfect for any gathering.
And if you’re not a cilantro lover like me, you can serve it with any number of dippable companions—potato chips, pita chips, or these crostinis with a smoky ancho chili spread.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese:
Creamy and rich; offers smooth texture and flavor with shine and plenty of tang.
Cheddar Cheese:
Adds depth and dimension; a powerhouse of protein and calcium.
Bacon:
The flavor is smoky and savory; the food contributes protein and a crunch that’s satisfying.
Jalapenos:
Zesty boost; enhances metabolism through capsaicin and infuses lively taste.
Green Onions:
Light onion taste; contributes to the freshness and provides a whisper of crispness.
Ingredient Quantities
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapenos
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Additional crumbled bacon and chopped jalapenos for coating
Instructions
1. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
2. Incorporate into the cheese mixture the cooked bacon, crumbled; jalapenos, very finely chopped; green onions, very finely chopped; and the following seasonings, all to taste: garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. When everything’s well mixed, you can consider the filling ready.
3. Fold the chopped pecans into the cheese mixture, if using, and make sure they are evenly distributed throughout.
4. After mixing, form the cheese mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula.
5. Tightly wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for a minimum of 1 hour. This gives the flavors a chance to mature and meld as the cheese ball firms up.
6. Prior to serving, set up the coating by combining in a shallow dish extra crumbled bacon and finely chopped jalapenos.
7. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the mixture of bacon and jalapenos until it is completely coated.
8. Move the cheese ball, which has been coated, to a serving platter.
9. If you want more color and flavor, you can add extra green onions.
10. Accompany with flatbreads, sliced raw veggies, or rustic bread, and relish the opportunity to chow down on your Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball!
Equipment Needed
1. Mixing Bowl
2. Spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting Board
5. Measuring Cups
6. Measuring Spoons
7. Plastic Wrap
8. Shallow Dish
9. Serving Platter
FAQ
- Q: Can I make the cheese ball in advance?Q: Can the cheese ball be made ahead of time, or must it be made just before serving?
A: Yes, the cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it will be ready to serve when you are.
- Q: Can I substitute another cheese for cheddar?Q: What cheese works well in this recipe for cheddar cheese soup if you’re lacking cheddar?
A: Substitutes that work well in the recipe are Monterey Jack and Colby.
- Q: How do I soften cream cheese quickly?A: To rapidly bring cream cheese to a spreadable consistency, cut it into cubes and allow it to sit at room temperature for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Q: Are the pecans necessary?A: No, the pecans are optional. They add a nice texture but can be omitted, especially for those with nut allergies.
- Q: Can I use pickled jalapenos instead of fresh?A: Yes, you can use pickled jalapenos. They might impart a slightly different flavor, but you can use them in the same quantities as fresh jalapenos.
- Q: How long will the cheese ball keep once served?Once the cheese ball is served, it can remain at room temperature for about 2 hours without fear of foodborne illness. As with any cooked or uncooked food, chill any leftover cheese ball as soon as possible.
Substitutions and Variations
You may use equal parts of mascarpone cheese to substitute for cream cheese, which will yield a flavor that is slightly sweeter than that of cream cheese.
Substitute shredded cheddar cheese with Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a different taste profile.
If crumbled cooked bacon isn’t on hand, pancetta or prosciutto can be employed as alternative ingredients.
Replace the jalapenos with green chiles to reduce the heat and achieve a milder flavor.
Chives can be used in place of green onions if you would prefer an even milder onion flavor.
Pro Tips
1. Ensure Cream Cheese is Softened: Before starting, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened. This will help you achieve a smoother and more cohesive mixture when blending with other ingredients. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
2. Balance Jalapeño Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your preference for spice. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat, while leaving them in will intensify it. Taste as you go to get the spiciness just right.
3. Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs such as chopped cilantro or parsley to the mixture for added freshness and complexity. This will complement the existing ingredients nicely.
4. Toast the Pecans: If using pecans, toasting them briefly in a dry skillet before mixing them into the cheese ball adds an extra layer of flavor. Let them cool before incorporating to maintain the cheese mixture’s texture.
5. Refrigeration Time: While the recipe calls for refrigerating for at least an hour, letting the cheese ball chill longer (even overnight) can significantly improve the flavors as they meld together more thoroughly.
Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball Recipe
My favorite Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Mixing Bowl
2. Spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting Board
5. Measuring Cups
6. Measuring Spoons
7. Plastic Wrap
8. Shallow Dish
9. Serving Platter
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapenos
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Additional crumbled bacon and chopped jalapenos for coating
Instructions:
1. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
2. Incorporate into the cheese mixture the cooked bacon, crumbled; jalapenos, very finely chopped; green onions, very finely chopped; and the following seasonings, all to taste: garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. When everything’s well mixed, you can consider the filling ready.
3. Fold the chopped pecans into the cheese mixture, if using, and make sure they are evenly distributed throughout.
4. After mixing, form the cheese mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula.
5. Tightly wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for a minimum of 1 hour. This gives the flavors a chance to mature and meld as the cheese ball firms up.
6. Prior to serving, set up the coating by combining in a shallow dish extra crumbled bacon and finely chopped jalapenos.
7. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the mixture of bacon and jalapenos until it is completely coated.
8. Move the cheese ball, which has been coated, to a serving platter.
9. If you want more color and flavor, you can add extra green onions.
10. Accompany with flatbreads, sliced raw veggies, or rustic bread, and relish the opportunity to chow down on your Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball!
