Create a flavorful Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball, perfect for sharing. This recipe brings together savory bacon and spicy jalapeno in a creamy cheese spread.
Author:Anya Bennett
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes (for bacon)
Total Time:2 hours 25 minutes
Yield:About 1 large cheese ball (10-12 servings)
Category:Appetizer
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 jalapeno, finely minced (remove seeds for less heat)
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for rolling)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until smooth.
Stir in the crumbled bacon, minced jalapeno, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Place the chopped nuts on a shallow plate.
Form the cheese mixture into a ball shape using your hands or a spatula.
Roll the cheese ball in the chopped nuts until completely coated.
Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up.
Serve chilled with crackers, celery sticks, or tortilla chips.
Notes
Anya suggests tasting the mixture before chilling and adjusting seasoning if needed.
If you prefer a milder flavor, use only half a jalapeno.
Make sure your cream cheese is truly soft for easy mixing.
You can substitute Monterey Jack for cheddar if you like a milder cheese flavor.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1/12 of cheese ball
Calories:Approx. 150-200 (Varies based on cheese and nuts)