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Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

THE COPY-PASTE READY RECIPE FOR THE ULTIMATE JALAPEÑO POPPER CHEESE BALL

This creamy, spicy appetizer blends the fiery flavor of classic jalapeño poppers with a cool, spreadable cream cheese ball base, finished with a crispy bacon and Panko coating. It is the perfect centerpiece for game day or holiday parties.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cream Cheese Base
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages full-fat cream cheese completely softened to room temperature (this is essential for smooth mixing).
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese finely shredded (or sharp white cheddar).
Jalapeño Popper Filling
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon cooked until very crispy. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the finely crumbled bacon for the exterior coating.
  • 2 to 3 medium fresh jalapeños stems, seeds, and membranes thoroughly removed, very finely minced. (Use 2 for moderate heat, 3 for maximum spice).
  • 1/4 cup green onions finely sliced, using only the white and light green parts.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh garlic finely minced.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground.
Outer Coating/Garnish
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs crispy.
  • 2 tablespoons Reserved crispy bacon crumbles (from ingredient 3).
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives or cilantro finely snipped or diced (optional, for color).

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Stand Mixer (optional)
  • Baking sheet
  • Plastic Wrap

Method
 

Step 1: Preparing the Base Mixture
  1. Ensure the two packages of cream cheese have been sitting at room temperature for at least one hour. Beat the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl (using a paddle attachment or hand mixer) until it is smooth, light, and completely uniform in texture, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  2. Add the 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the cream cheese base and mix thoroughly until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 2: Integrating the Popper Flavors
  1. Take the majority of the finely crumbled, crispy bacon (reserving the 2 tablespoons designated for the coating) and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
  2. Add the very finely minced jalapeños (remembering to wash your hands thoroughly after handling), the minced fresh garlic, the sliced green onions, the kosher salt, and the black pepper to the bowl.
  3. Mix all the ingredients together very carefully. Use a rubber spatula to fold the ingredients from the bottom to the top, ensuring that the jalapeños and bacon are evenly distributed throughout the entire cheese mixture. Do not overmix, or the mixture will become too warm.
Step 3: Forming and Chilling the Cheese Ball
  1. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter surface. Scoop the entire cheese ball mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap to help guide the mixture, form the cheese mixture into a round, spherical shape.
  2. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap, pressing out any air bubbles, and seal the wrap completely. Place the tightly wrapped cheese ball onto a small plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours. For best results, chill overnight.
Step 4: Preparing the Outer Coating and Finishing
  1. Prepare the coating mixture: In a shallow dish or plate, combine the 1/2 cup of Panko breadcrumbs, the reserved 2 tablespoons of crispy bacon crumbles, and the optional snipped chives. Stir the coating ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
  2. Remove the firm cheese ball from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap. Gently place the cheese ball into the center of the coating mixture. Roll the cheese ball firmly in the coating, pressing the coating onto the surface so that it adheres completely and evenly covers the entire sphere.
  3. Transfer the finished cheese ball to a serving platter. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving, as this slightly softens the exterior, making it easier to spread. Serve immediately with sturdy crackers, crostini, or sliced fresh vegetables.

Notes

**Spice Level Control:** If you prefer a milder cheese ball, use only 1 medium jalapeño and ensure you scrape out every bit of the white membrane. **Serving Suggestion:** For a dramatic presentation, serve with blue corn chips or brightly colored pepper strips. **Storage:** Leftovers can be wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.