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
- 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.
- Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- 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.
- Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- In the meantime, prepare the coating by placing the crushed tortilla chips in a shallow dish.
- After the cheese ball has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic wrap.
- Roll the cheese ball in the crushed tortilla chips, pressing gently to adhere the chips to the surface.
- Place the coated cheese ball on a serving plate and garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.
- Serve the Spicy Taco Cheese Ball with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable slices.
