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Jalapeno popper cheese ball on a platter with crackers.
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Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

If you are looking for a great appetizer, this Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball is so delicious. A tasty mix of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, ranch crispy bacon and spicy jalapenos.
Prep Time10 minutes
Additional Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheese ball, cream cheese dip, easy appetizer, jalapeno cheese ball
Servings: 8 Servings
Calories: 352kcal
Author: Milisa

Ingredients

  • 8 slices cooked bacon divided
  • 2 cups cheddar - divided
  • 2- 3 fresh jalapenos
  • 3/4 cup green onions - divided
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 3 tablespoons sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • Crackers or chips for serving

Instructions

  • Add softened cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, ranch dressing mix, garlic and salt to a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined.
  • Chop 6 slices of bacon and slice green onions.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, diced jalapenos, bacon and green onions and combine with cream cheese. Mixing at low speed with electric mixer until well combined.
  • Grab a large piece of plastic wrap. Place cream cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Cover completely with the plastic wrap, pressing into a ball shape. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. 
  • Chop remaining 2 slices of bacon, pecans and parsley. Combine with cheddar cheese and smoked paprika. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • When cheese ball is chilled, remove from plastic wrap. Spread bacon, pecan and cheese mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or a clean cutting board. Roll the cheese ball into mixture, lightly pressing the coating into the cheese ball.
  • Place on a serving platter with crackers or chips.

Notes

  • Cheese: Use pepper jack cheese, colby-jack, mild cheddar or parmesan.
  • Nuts: Toasted walnuts work well or skip the nuts if preferred. Substitute panko bread crumbs or for a low-carb version, pork rinds make a crunchy coating.
  • Herbs: Fresh cilantro, parsley or dill are all delicious with this flavor combination.
  • Mini Cheese Ball Bites: When shaping the cheeseball mixture, use a small cookie scoop to form into mini cheese balls. Place on a lined cookie sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate one hour or overnight. Roll each mini cheese ball into bacon and pecan mixture and serve on a large plate or serving platter.
  • Storage: Store cheese ball wrapped tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator up to 4 days.
  • Occasions: Christmas parties, holiday gatherings, Super Bowl parties, cookouts and potlucks.
  • Nutrition

    Serving: 1g | Calories: 352kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 900mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g