Description

Indulge in the irresistible delight of Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls, a perfect appetizer for any occasion. These savory bites combine creamy cheeses with the kick of jalapeños, making them an instant hit at parties, game days, or cozy gatherings. With their crispy coating and rich flavors, these cheese balls are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your heat preference. Whether served with crunchy crackers, on a veggie platter, or alongside tortilla chips, they promise to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
2 tbsp sour cream
2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp chopped chives

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, sour cream, chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
In another bowl, mix crushed crackers with chopped herbs. Roll each cheese ball in this mixture until fully coated.
Chill the assembled cheese balls for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cheese ball (40g)
Calories: 120
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: For a milder flavor, remove all seeds and membranes from jalapeños. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for varied taste profiles.