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How to Make Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls – A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

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These Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are the perfect party appetizer—creamy, cheesy, spicy, and packed with flavor! They combine the bold taste of jalapeños with a rich, creamy cheese blend, coated in crispy bacon and crunchy toppings. Serve them with crackers or veggies for a crowd-pleasing treat!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup cooked bacon crumbles (optional: substitute with toasted pecans or crushed crackers)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions
  • 1 cup crushed crackers, panko, or nuts (for coating)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Form the Cheese Balls

  1. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Balls

  1. In a shallow bowl, mix together the bacon crumbles, parsley (or green onions), and crushed crackers/panko/nuts.

  2. Roll each cheese ball in the coating mixture until fully covered.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

  1. Place the coated cheese balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

  2. Serve chilled with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the cheese balls up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or using mild green chilies instead.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jalapeño popper cheese balls, party appetizers, spicy cheese balls, easy appetizer recipe, cheese ball recipe, bacon cheese balls, no-cook appetizers

Find it online: https://www.samyrecipes.com/jalapeno-popper-cheese-balls/