We had a great and busy weekend once again. On Saturday, we drove out to Lindsey and Eric's house for a barbecue. It was our first time visiting their new home and we had a blast. Sweet P was a champ! Since Secret Recipe Club was coming up, I decided to pick out an appetizer from Juanita's Cocina to bring with us. When I found this gorgeous and delicious bacon jalapeno cheese ball, I knew it would be the perfect party food to share. It was so good that I made it again on Sunday for a little belated birthday celebration at my parents' house.
So many of Jen's recipes looked incredible (hello microwaved cakes in jars?!) but I'm so glad that I picked this recipe. By cleaning the jalapenos completely - removing each and every seed and rib - this cheseball had just the slightest kick with an otherwise peppery, bacony, cheesy flavor. And the best part? It came together very quickly with no baking required!
Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Ball
*Adapted from Juanita's Cocina
8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 C shredded cheddar cheese
2 Tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, mince
1/4 tsp cumin
1 tsp lime juice
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 jalapenos, seeded and deveined, chopped finely
6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Salt & pepper to taste
1/2 C chopped walnuts or pecans
Crackers for serving (I like Club Multigrain)
In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar, cilantro, garlic, cumin, lime juice, Worcestershire, diced jalapenos, and half of the crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Once completely combined, shape into a ball, wrap with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 15-30 min. When firmed slightly, roll in chopped nuts until completely coated. Serve with crackers, or your choice of dippers.
What are your go-to party foods?
This cheese ball is going to be my new go-to!