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

A creamy, spicy, and savory cheese ball loaded with crispy bacon and fresh jalapeños. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for holiday entertaining, game day snacks, or any gathering where flavor is key.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Rubber spatula
  • 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. This guarantees a smooth mixture without lumps.
  2. In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), beat the fully softened cream cheese on medium-low speed until it is smooth, light, and completely uniform in texture, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. 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.
Step 3: Forming and Chilling the Cheese Ball
  1. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter surface and scoop the entire cheese ball mixture onto the center.
  2. Using the plastic wrap to help guide the mixture, form the cheese mixture into a round, spherical shape. Wrap the cheese ball tightly, pressing out any air bubbles, and seal the wrap completely.
  3. 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. About 20 minutes before serving, prepare the coating mixture. In a shallow dish or plate, combine the 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.
  3. Gently place the cheese ball into the center of the coating mixture. Roll the cheese ball firmly in the coating, using the palms of your hands to lightly press the coating onto the surface so that it adheres completely and evenly covers the entire sphere.
Step 5: Serving and Presentation
  1. Transfer the finished Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball to a serving platter.
  2. Allow the cheese ball to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving, as this slightly softens the exterior, making it easier to spread.
  3. Serve immediately with sturdy crackers, crostini, bagel chips, pretzels, or sliced fresh vegetables.

Notes

Chilling Time is essential for this recipe and is not included in the 'Total Time.' Ensure the cheese ball chills for at least 4 hours before coating. For a lower-fat version, use light cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly less creamy. If you prefer a milder flavor, use only 1 jalapeño.