This Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls recipe is the ultimate party appetizer, combining creamy textures with a spicy kick and smoky bacon. It is incredibly easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to choice for holiday gatherings or game-day snacks.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it captures everything wonderful about classic jalapeño poppers in a convenient, spreadable form. It offers the perfect balance of heat from the peppers and coolness from the cream cheese, all rolled in a crunchy coating of bacon and pecans. Whether you are hosting a formal holiday dinner or a casual get-together, this cheese ball is guaranteed to be the first appetizer to disappear.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped (divided)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, half of the chopped jalapeños, the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the cooked bacon. Add in the green onions, seasoning salt, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and cumin. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Prepare the Coating: On a large plate or shallow dish, combine the remaining half of the bacon, the remaining jalapeños, and the coarsely chopped pecans. Mix them slightly so the coating is even.
- Shape and Coat: Shape the cream cheese mixture into a firm ball. Roll the ball onto the plate with the bacon and pecan mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well to the entire surface.
- Chill and Serve: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap (saran wrap) and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the shape to firm up.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
To make the best Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls, always start with softened cream cheese. Leaving it on the counter for about an hour ensures it mixes smoothly without lumps. For the best flavor and texture, grate your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as fresh cheese sticks better and tastes superior.
When it comes to shaping, a great trick is to transfer the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Pull the corners of the wrap together and twist them tight to form a perfect sphere without getting your hands messy. You can then roll the wrapped ball on the counter to smooth out the edges before applying the final coating.
Variations & Substitutions
While cheddar is the classic choice, you can easily swap it for Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend. If you want an extra kick of heat, try using shredded Pepper Jack cheese. For those who aren’t fans of pecans, you can substitute them with chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, or even crushed buttery crackers for a different kind of crunch. You can also experiment with mix-ins like dried cranberries for a sweet and savory holiday twist.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball pairs beautifully with a variety of “dippables.” For a classic approach, serve it with buttery Ritz crackers or toasted crostini. If you prefer a crunchier texture, pita chips and pretzels are excellent choices. For a lower-carb or fresher option, provide a platter of sliced bell peppers, baby carrots, and celery sticks. The vibrant colors of the vegetables make the serving tray look even more appetizing.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For the best texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so it softens slightly.
If you want to freeze the cheese ball, prepare the cream cheese mixture and shape it into a ball, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It is best to store the coating separately and apply it fresh after thawing. When you are ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before rolling it in the bacon and pecan mixture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 131 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 355 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, half of the chopped jalapeños, the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the cooked bacon. Add in the green onions, seasoning salt, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and cumin. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, 3 jalapeños, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 8 slices bacon, 1/4 cup green onions, 1 teaspoon seasoning salt, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- On a large plate or shallow dish, combine the remaining half of the bacon, the remaining jalapeños, and the coarsely chopped pecans. Mix them slightly so the coating is even.3 jalapeños, 8 slices bacon, 1/2 cup pecans
- Shape the cream cheese mixture into a firm ball. Roll the ball onto the plate with the bacon and pecan mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well to the entire surface.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap (saran wrap) and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
FAQ
Is this cheese ball very spicy?
The spice level is moderate. By removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, you remove most of the intense heat. The cream cheese also acts as a cooling agent, balancing the spice perfectly.
Can I make this appetizer in advance?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead recipe. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. In fact, chilling it for at least an hour is recommended to help the flavors develop.
What if I don’t have seasoning salt?
You can easily substitute seasoning salt with a mix of regular salt, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, or simply use your favorite all-purpose savory seasoning blend.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Absolutely. While traditional bacon provides a smoky flavor, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative. Just ensure it is cooked until very crispy so it provides the necessary crunch for the coating.