QUICK Bacon Jalapeo Cheese Ball
This QUICK Bacon Jalapeo Cheese Ball is a creamy, cheesy appetizer with a spicy kick and crispy bacon, perfect for parties and casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients and requires minimal time.
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 4-5 strips turkey bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 green onions finely sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley optional, for garnish
- crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Cook your turkey bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Finely chop the jalapeños—remove seeds if you prefer milder heat. Slice the green onions thinly, and shred cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
Step 2: Mix the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a hand mixer or spoon to blend until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 3: Add the Mix-Ins
- Fold in chopped jalapeños, crumbled turkey bacon, and green onions. Stir until everything is well distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Ball
- Form the mixture into a ball shape using your hands or a spoon. Optionally, roll the cheese ball in extra crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or additional shredded cheddar for presentation.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Place the cheese ball on a serving plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the ball to firm up. You can serve immediately if short on time, but chilling enhances taste and texture.
Step 6: Enjoy
- Serve the cheese ball with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like celery and bell peppers. Enjoy!
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Hand Mixer
- Spoon
- Serving Plate
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for best flavor. Adjust jalapeños to your heat preference. Cook bacon until crispy for added crunch. Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap tightly to prevent drying. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for extra heat, swapping cheeses, adding fresh herbs, or making a vegetarian version by omitting bacon.