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Loaded Jalapeño Popper Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs

jalapeño popper bacon ranch cheeseballs - featured image
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These loaded jalapeño popper bacon ranch cheeseballs are the ultimate bite-sized party appetizer, combining creamy cheese, smoky bacon, ranch seasoning, and a zing of jalapeño. Quick to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped (about 8–10 slices)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Chives, minced (optional, for garnish)
  • Crushed crackers or pecans (optional, for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Fry or bake 8-10 slices of bacon until crispy. Drain, let cool, and chop finely.
  2. Prep the veggies: Dice jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat) and finely slice green onions. Mince chives if using for garnish.
  3. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
  4. Add the flavor boosters: Mix in half the chopped bacon, diced jalapeños, green onions, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Chill the mixture: Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  6. Shape into balls: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get 18-24 cheeseballs.
  7. Roll in coatings: Spread remaining chopped bacon (and optional crushed crackers or pecans) on a plate. Roll each cheeseball in the coating until well covered.
  8. Chill again (optional): Refrigerate for another 30 minutes for firmer cheeseballs, or serve immediately.
  9. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with minced chives or extra green onion. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and roll in toasted pecans, sunflower seeds, or crispy fried onions. Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Chill the mixture before rolling for easier handling. These cheeseballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to a month. Adjust the heat by adding or removing jalapeño seeds, or swap in sweet peppers for a milder version.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper, bacon ranch cheeseballs, party appetizer, finger food, low carb, gluten free, make ahead, game day, holiday snack, cheese ball

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/loaded-jalape-n-o-popper-bacon-ranch-cheeseballs-easy-party-appetizer-recipe/