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Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

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This Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is a creamy, spicy, and savory appetizer that’s packed with the flavors of a classic jalapeño popper. With cream cheese, cheddar, crispy bacon, and jalapeños, it’s rolled in a crunchy coating for a party-perfect snack. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies!

Ingredients

Scale

For the cheese ball:

  • 2 packages (16 oz / 450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1/2 cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled

For the coating:

  • 1/2 cup crushed crackers (like Ritz or pretzels)
  • 1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese ball mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Mix until smooth and well combined.
    • Stir in the pickled jalapeños, fresh jalapeños (if using), and crumbled bacon.
  2. Shape the cheese ball:
    • Place the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the wrap and shape the mixture into a ball.
    • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to hold its shape.
  3. Make the coating:
    • In a shallow dish, combine the crushed crackers, crumbled bacon, parsley, and jalapeños (if using).
  4. Coat the cheese ball:
    • Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Serve:
    • Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • For a milder version, omit the fresh jalapeños and use only pickled jalapeños.
  • To make ahead, prepare and refrigerate the cheese ball (without the coating) up to 2 days in advance. Roll in the coating just before serving.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.