Description
This creamy and spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer! Packed with cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños, it’s a flavor explosion that’s easy to make ahead and perfect for holidays, game days, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
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2 boxes (8 ounces each) cream cheese, slightly softened
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2 tablespoons sour cream
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¾ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup)
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10 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped (reserve half)
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2 jalapeños, minced (reserve half)
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½ cup chopped green onions (reserve half)
Instructions
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Using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Turn the mixer to low and blend in 1½ cups cheddar cheese, half of the chopped bacon, half of the minced jalapeños, and half of the green onions.
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Combine your reserved cheddar, bacon, jalapeños, and green onions in a small zip-top bag and refrigerate.
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Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and use the wrap to shape it into a ball.
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Wrap tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours) until firm.
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Before serving, remove from the fridge for 20 minutes. Roll the cheese ball in the reserved toppings to coat evenly.
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Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or sliced cheddar for dipping. Enjoy!
Notes
Soften your cream cheese slightly for smooth blending—don’t let it get too soft or shaping will be tricky.
Grate your own cheddar for the best flavor and texture.
For milder heat, remove all seeds and veins from the jalapeños.
Chill overnight for the best consistency and flavor.
Remove from the fridge about 20 minutes before serving for the perfect creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake / Mix and Chill
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/12 of cheese ball)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg