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Jalapeno Popper Football Cheese Ball

Jalapeno Popper Football Cheese Ball
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The Jalapeno Popper Football Cheese Ball is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful game day appetizer that combines the best elements of jalapeno poppers in a festive football-shaped cheese ball. Featuring cream cheese, sharp cheddar, jalapenos, crispy bacon, and a parmesan coating, this appetizer is perfect for tailgates, watch parties, or any gathering where you want a delicious and conversation-starting snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped

Mix-ins

  • 2–3 jalapenos, finely diced (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

Coating and Decoration

  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for coating)
  • Cream cheese or sour cream (for piping football laces)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely dice jalapenos, removing seeds if you prefer milder heat. Chop green onions. Fry bacon until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  2. Mix the Cheese Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
  3. Add Jalapenos and Bacon: Fold in the diced jalapenos and crumbled bacon, ensuring even distribution throughout the cheese mixture to achieve the signature popper flavor in every bite.
  4. Shape the Football: Using your hands or plastic wrap, mold the cheese mixture into an oblong football shape, approximately 6 to 8 inches long, which is festive and makes serving easier.
  5. Coat and Decorate: Roll the shaped cheese ball in shredded Parmesan cheese to form a flavorful crust. Use thin strips of cream cheese or sour cream to pipe football laces on top, replicating the look of a real football.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours to allow it to firm up and for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing and creamier texture.
  • Taste and adjust the amount of jalapenos to control the spice level.
  • Bake bacon in the oven for even crispiness and less mess.
  • Use plastic wrap while shaping to keep your hands clean and smooth the surface.
  • Always refrigerate the cheese ball before serving to make slicing and serving easier.
  • If piping cream cheese is difficult, use thin strips of cheese or a thin brush with sour cream to create football laces.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno popper, cheese ball, football shaped appetizer, game day snack, spicy cheese ball, bacon cheese ball

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/jalapeno-popper-football-cheese-ball/