Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball 1

Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

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The Cowboy Caviar Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is a delicious twist on classic jalapeño poppers, blending creamy cheeses with the fresh, bold flavors of cowboy caviar. Quick to prepare and full of zest, this cheese ball is the perfect centerpiece for your next party or get-together.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup corn, drained
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball 2

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and creamy.
  2. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, and cilantro to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Add lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  5. Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.

Variation

  1. Roll the cheese ball in crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
  2. Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
  3. Mix in pepper jack cheese for an additional spicy taste.

Cooking Notes

  1. Ensure cream cheese is well softened to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld and the ball to set properly.
  3. Adjust seasoning to preference before chilling.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with a variety of crackers or vegetable sticks.
  2. Pair with a light beer or zesty margarita.
  3. Include as part of a cheese platter for variety.

Tips

  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Prepare a day in advance for more intense flavors.
  • Use a food processor for evenly chopped ingredients.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 9g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I prepare this cheese ball ahead of time?
    Answer: Yes, it’s best made a day ahead to enhance the flavors.
  2. What if I don’t have fresh jalapeños?
    Answer: Pickled jalapeños are a great substitute.
  3. How long does the cheese ball last once made?
    Answer: It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
  4. Can I freeze the cheese ball?
    Answer: Freezing is not recommended as it alters texture upon thawing.

Conclusion

This Cowboy Caviar Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball melds the creamy goodness of cheese with zesty and fresh ingredients, creating an irresistible blend that tantalizes your taste buds. Ideal for serving at gatherings, this appetizer will have guests reaching for more, making it an unforgettable addition to your party menu.

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Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball 1

Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

The Cowboy Caviar Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball is a delicious twist on classic jalapeño poppers, blending creamy cheeses with the fresh, bold flavors of cowboy caviar. Quick to prepare and full of zest, this cheese ball is the perfect centerpiece for your next party or get-together.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup corn, drained
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and creamy.
  2. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, and cilantro to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Add lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  5. Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.

Notes

  • For added spice, use fresh jalapeños.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese ball
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Cheese Ball, Appetizer, Jalapeño, Party Snack, Cowboy Caviar

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