Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball Recipe
This Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball combines cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, jalapenos, and green onions for a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering.
12 Servings
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese slightly softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese reserve ½ cup
- 10 slices crispy cooked bacon chopped (reserve half)
- 2 jalapenos minced reserve half
- ½ cup chopped green onions reserve half
Instructions
Prepare the cheese mixture:
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Reduce the speed to low and mix in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar, half of the chopped bacon, half of the minced jalapeno, and half of the green onions.
Reserve the toppings:
- Combine the remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, jalapenos, and green onions in a small resealable bag. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use for coating the cheese ball.
Shape the cheese ball:
- Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and gather the plastic wrap around it to form a ball. Adjust the wrap as needed to create a smooth, round shape. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Coat the cheese ball:
- Approximately 20 minutes before serving, spread the reserved topping mixture on a cutting board or large plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it in the topping mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
Serve:
- Place the finished cheese ball on a serving platter and pair it with crackers, fresh vegetables, or pretzels.
Notes
This recipe is naturally gluten-free when paired with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables for serving. To ensure complete gluten-free compliance, verify that your bacon and spices are certified gluten-free, as some pre-packaged options may contain gluten additives.