Spicy Taco Cheese Ball Recipe for Tailgating Parties

4 stars
4.16 (19)
Spicy Taco Cheese Ball Recipe for Tailgating Parties
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
25mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on October 13, 2023

This Spicy Taco Cheese Ball is a perfect appetizer for tailgating parties. Packed with flavors of taco seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, it is a spicy and creamy delight. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables for a crowd-pleasing snack. With a prep time of only 15 minutes, it is a quick and easy recipe for any gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely diced jalapeno pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips, for coating

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, green bell pepper, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  2. Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Place the mixture in the center of a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball by wrapping the plastic wrap tightly around the mixture and twisting the ends.
  4. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
  5. In the meantime, prepare the coating by placing the crushed tortilla chips in a shallow dish.
  6. After the cheese ball has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic wrap.
  7. Roll the cheese ball in the crushed tortilla chips, pressing gently to adhere the chips to the surface.
  8. Place the coated cheese ball on a serving plate and garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.
  9. Serve the Spicy Taco Cheese Ball with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable slices.

Interesting Facts

  • Tailgating parties are a popular American tradition, where fans gather to enjoy food and drinks before sporting events.
  • The Spicy Taco Cheese Ball can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight for even more flavor.
  • Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that adds richness and creaminess to many recipes, including this cheese ball.