1-2jalapeño peppersfinely chopped, seeds and veins removed (divided)
8ouncescream cheeseroom temperature
1/2cupMexican cheese blendfinely shredded
1/2teaspoonsmoked paprika
1/2teaspoonground cumin
1/2teaspoonseasoned salt
1/2teaspoonoregano
1/2teaspoongarlic powder
8slicesbaconcooked
Instructions
Combine half the jalapeño peppers, cream cheese, Mexican cheese, and seasonings in a large bowl. Stir well to combine.
Shape the cheese mixture into a ball with your hands. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 15 minutes.
Combine the bacon crumbs and half the jalapeño pepper in a large bowl and stir. Remove cheese ball from refrigerator. Gently roll it in the bowl of bacon and jalapeño until thoroughly coated. Put the cheese ball on a serving dish and serve with sliced vegetables and/or crackers.
Notes
If you don’t like jalapeno, it can be substituted with green onion for a milder cheese ball.
Adjust the heat of the peppers: more seeds and ribs = more heat.