The Jalapeno Bacon Cheeseball is a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the smoky flavor of bacon, the heat of jalapenos, and the creamy texture of cheese. This recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. With its delightful mix of ingredients, this cheeseball is sure to become a favorite at any event. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy hosts.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
This Jalapeno Bacon Cheeseball is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The combination of spicy jalapenos, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Additionally, this recipe is highly versatile—you can adjust the heat level to your preference and experiment with different types of cheese. It’s also a great make-ahead dish; prepare it in advance and chill until ready to serve. Your guests will love the bold flavors, and you’ll appreciate the simplicity of this crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup diced jalapenos
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, diced jalapenos, and green onions.
- Mix: Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form Cheeseball: Shape the cheese mixture into a ball using your hands.
- Coat with Pecans: Spread the chopped pecans on a plate and roll the cheeseball in the pecans until it is fully coated.
- Chill: Wrap the cheeseball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving with crackers, vegetables, or bread.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1/8 of the cheeseball):
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Variations
- Spicier Version: Add more jalapenos or include a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Different Cheeses: Try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Nut-Free: Substitute the pecans with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheeseball ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cheeseball up to two days in advance. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of pecans? If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different coating, try using crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even chopped fresh herbs.
How do I adjust the heat level? To reduce the heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For more heat, add extra jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to ensure easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps the flavors blend together and makes the cheeseball easier to shape and serve.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a variety of dippers like crackers, pita chips, sliced vegetables, and even apple slices for a sweet and savory combination.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jalapeno Bacon Cheeseball with a selection of crackers, fresh vegetables like celery sticks and carrot slices, or toasted bread. It’s a perfect addition to a party platter and pairs well with a variety of beverages, from crisp white wine to refreshing iced tea.
