Description
This easy, fun snack combines cream cheese, jalapeños, and bacon into a festive football-shaped cheese ball, perfect for game days.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Use low-fat cream cheese if desired.)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) (Pat pickled jalapeños dry to avoid a watery mix.)
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Can be omitted or replaced with nuts or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Coating
- 1 cup crushed crackers (For coating; keep some texture for better appearance.)
Garnish
- Chives or parsley (Use for creating laces on the cheese ball.)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a football shape and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Coating
- Once set, remove from the fridge and roll the cheese ball in the crushed crackers to coat evenly.
- Place on a serving platter and use chives or parsley to create ‘laces’ on the football.
- Serve with additional crackers or veggies for dipping.
Notes
Wrap leftover cheese ball in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can be frozen for longer storage. Let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving for a spreadable texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Cuisine: American