Description
Learn how to make this show-stopping Jalapeño Popper Football Cheese Ball! This detailed recipe combines creamy cheeses, spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a fun football shape. Get step-by-step instructions, variations, and a comprehensive FAQ.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (plus extra to make the “laces”)
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
- 1 fresh jalapeño, deseeded & finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onion, sliced (green & white parts are ok)
- 8–10 slices of bacon, cooked & cooled
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Coating:
- In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, finely diced fresh jalapeño, and half of the cooked and crumbled bacon. Set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Ball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped pickled jalapeños, sliced green onion, garlic powder, and the remaining cooked and crumbled bacon.
- Mix well with a rubber spatula (or an electric mixer on low speed) until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
- Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean work surface.
- Scoop the cheese ball mixture onto the plastic wrap.
- Use your hands (and the plastic wrap) to shape the mixture into a ball.
- Then, gently shape the ball into a football shape, elongating it and tapering the ends.
4. Apply the Coating:
- Sprinkle the pecan-bacon-jalapeño mixture evenly over the entire surface of the football-shaped cheese ball.
- Gently press the coating into the cheese ball to help it adhere.
5. Create the “Laces”:
- Cut one long, thin strip and four shorter strips of Monterey Jack cheese from the extra cheese you reserved.
- Carefully place the long strip lengthwise across the top of the football.
- Place the four shorter strips perpendicular to the long strip, creating the appearance of football laces.
- Gently press the cheese strips into the coating to help them stick.
6. Chill (Optional, but Recommended):
- Wrap the finished cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably a few hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up. This step is optional, but it improves the flavor and makes the cheese ball easier to serve.
7. Serve:
- Serve the Jalapeño Popper Football Cheese Ball with your favorite crackers, chips, or vegetables.
