This easy jalapeno popper cheese ball recipe is just as convenient as those store-bought cheese balls, but way, way better. Why? Well, it's made from scratch and is packed with the best flavors ever - fresh jalapeno, cheddar cheese, tangy cream cheese, and crispy, smoky bacon sprinkled all over. There's no better appetizer for the holidays, plus you can make it ahead of time for easy entertaining!
If you’ve followed my recipes or content for any amount of time, you know that I’m a sucker for jalapeno poppers.
It's one of my favorite flavor combinations ever. The richness and creaminess of the cheese mellows out the spicy jalapeños, and it just WORKS.
I’ve created this appetizer recipe to blend a few of my favorite flavors together into one amazing snack that will not only leave everyone’s palate satisfied, but also have everyone gathered around one place talking and creating new memories.
I'm obsessed with jalapeno poppers and this delicious flavor combination and love to use them in all different kinds of recipes. If you're a jalapeno popper fiend, too, you might like these Homemade Jalapeno Poppers Hot Pockets. Or, merge this perfect flavor with my other favorite flavor - pickles - in these Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Pickles. They're both so good!
Why you’ve got to try this Jalapeno Cheese Ball
- Perfect appetizer for the holiday season, game day get-togethers and more
- Has the classic flavor from jalapeño poppers, but in bite-sized form
- Uses super simple ingredients you may already have on hand
- Unlike anything you can find at the store - this is a one-of-a-kind recipe!
Want to try this recipe at your next party? Print the recipe card for later!
Ingredients
- Plain cream cheese - This must be fully softened at room temperature to get the best texture and flavor.
- Fresh jalapenos - I like to use raw jalapenos here, but you can also use roasted jalapenos or even pickled jalapenos for a slightly different flavor profile. Be sure to remove the jalapeno seeds and veins if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Garlic powder - For a little extra flavor.
- Cheddar cheese - I like the flavor of sharp cheddar cheese here, but yo u can mix and match different types of cheese or add some heat with a little pepper jack cheese.
- Crispy bacon - This is crumbled and sprinkled over top of the cheese ball for a nice crust. This also means you get bacon in every bite!
- Crackers or crostini - for serving
Pro Tip: Feel free to add some fresh herbs here like sliced green onions or chives. They add a little extra color and even more flavor.
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How to Make Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
- Combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic-based seasoning, and shredded cheese in a medium bowl.
- Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean, flat surface. Transfer the cream cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, shaping it into a log or ball shape. Wrap the mixture tightly with the plastic wrap, ensuring it is completely covered.
- Add bacon coating to the outside of the cheeseball. Be careful to coat just the outside of the ball, and not push the bacon bits into the cream cheese itself.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. Overnight is fine if you want to make it the night before.
- Remove from refrigerator, and serve with crackers
It's way easier to make this jalapeno cheese balls while wearing gloves, plus you won't have to worry about getting the spicy jalapeno juice on your hands (or anywhere else).
Storing Suggestions
Once wrapped, store the cheeseball in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can keep it in an airtight container or on a large plate to
Tips & Variations
- Chill overnight. For best results refrigerate for an hour or two (overnight is fine also) to firm up the cheese before serving.
- Adjust the size. You can shape the jalapeno popper dip however you'd like. You can make a log, giant ball, or single-serving mini cheese ball bites! Just know that if you use a smaller shape, you'll need more bacon crumbles.
- Add an extra kick. Sprinkle some red pepper flakes, minced red onion, or black pepper to the mixture.
How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Bacon Cheese Ball
When you're ready to serve, remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of a large plate. Surround with crackers, pita chips, toasted bread, or my favorite option, homemade crostini, and enjoy!
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FAQs
Do you have to use cheddar cheese?
Cheddar is classic in many cheese ball recipes because the flavor works so well with the cream cheese, but you can definitely change it up. Try shredded Swiss cheese (like Jarlsberg), provolone, or even a smoked gouda for extra smoky flavor.
How long does it take for homemade cheese balls to set?
It really depends on the size of the cheese ball. A large jalapeno popper cheeseball can take up to 2 hours to cool and firm back up, where little cheese balls may take less than an hour. I do recommend giving it some time before the flavors really come together as they sit in the fridge.
How spicy is a jalapeno popper cheese ball?
That depends on the specific jalapenos you're using. Most jalapenos aren't super spicy and are more of a medium heat, while others will make you sweat. It can help to taste the pepper first to know what to expect. You can also try adding hotter peppers (like serrano) or mellow it out by roasting the jalapenos or using mild roasted green chiles instead. You have lots of options!
Related Recipes
- Brisket Cheeseball Recipe
- Bacon Jam Smoked Cream Cheese
- French Onion Dip in Sourdough Bread Bowl
- Delicious Smoked Mexican Bacon Street Corn Dip
- Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Let's get cooking!
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Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 16 oz Cream Cheese softened
- 2 Medium - Large Jalapenos finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Seasoning
- ½ cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese finely chopped
- 6-8 pieces Crispy Bacon finely chopped
- Crackers or crostini for serving
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic-based seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Transfer the cream cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, shaping it into a ball or log shape. Wrap the mixture tightly with the plastic wrap, ensuring it is completely covered
- Add bacon coating to the outside of the cheeseball
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, overnight is fine
- Remove from refrigerator, and serve with crackers
Notes
Nutrition
Want to try this recipe? Print the recipe card for later!
trish says
could you substitute jalapeño's in the jar?
Danny Dobrzenski says
Sure can. - Danny
Leslie Steeno says
Looks like I just found an appetizer for the holiday’s!
Danny Dobrzenski says
That's great news!