Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Ball
User Reviews
5
Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Ball
Description
This recipe combines softened cream cheese with picante sauce and shredded sharp cheddar to form a rich and tangy base. Minced jalapeno peppers add moderate heat and a distinct pepper flavor, balanced by the fresh notes of cilantro mixed into the cheese. The mixture is shaped into a ball using plastic wrap and chilled to firm the shape and meld the flavors.
Before serving, the cheese ball is rolled in a mix of crushed tortilla chips and more cilantro, providing a crisp, herby exterior layer to complement the creamy inside. Optional chopped tomatoes can be added as a garnish to enhance the presentation and contribute a fresh contrast.
This cheese ball appetizer is suitable for serving with crackers, chips, or vegetable sticks, offering a combination of spicy, cheesy, and fresh flavors in a convenient form.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup picante sauce Medium Pace®
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded sharp
- 2 tablespoons jalapeno pepper seeds and ribs removed. Alternatively you can use 1/4 cup of minced green bell pepper for less heat, minced
- 1/2 cup cilantro divided use, minced
- 1 cup tortilla chips crushed
- tomatoes optional, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Place the cream cheese and Picante Sauce in a bowl and mix until thoroughly combined. You can use a spoon or a mixer for this step.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeno and 1/4 cup cilantro.
- Place the cheese mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball with your hands.
- Wrap the plastic wrap around the ball of cheese and refrigerate for at least one hour or up to one day.
- Just before serving, combine the crushed tortilla chips and remaining 1/4 cup cilantro on a plate.
- Remove the plastic wrap from the cheese ball and roll it in the tortilla chip mixture.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped tomatoes if desired.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 262 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 262kcal | 13% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.