Football Cheese Ball

This easy Football Cheese Ball is the perfect appetizer for football season. Loaded with the mouthwatering flavors of bacon and jalapeño mixed into a creamy cheese ball, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any tailgate or game day party!

Football Cheese Ball

I’m all about stepping up my appetizer game, and this adorable football cheese ball is my newest obsession. Loaded with a flavorful mix of cheese, bacon, jalapeño, pecans, and yummy seasonings, it’s a total touchdown!

Just like any perfect party snack, it’s ridiculously easy to whip up too. The best part? I can make it hours in advance, so I’m free to hang out with my friends instead of stressing in the kitchen.

Also known as a jalapeño popper football cheese ball, this snack is my go-to for the big game—and I promise it’ll be the star of the show. Forget ordinary cheese and crackers; this football cheese ball recipe is the new game day essential!

Ingredients

• Cream cheese, softened
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ranch seasoning
• Green onion, chopped
• Cooked, chopped bacon, divided
• Chopped pecan pieces
• Fresh jalapeños, finely diced
• Worcestershire sauce
• White cheddar or American cheese
• Crackers and pretzels for dipping

How to Make a Football Shaped Cheese Ball

Step 1: Combine cream cheese, jalapeno, shredded cheese, green onion, ½ cup chopped bacon, ranch seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce together in a bowl.

Step 2: Mix together until all the ingredients are well blended.

Step 3: Place a piece of plastic wrap on a cutting board (I love this football shaped platter). Put the cream cheese mixture on top, then use your hands to mold it into the shape of a football.

Step 4: Wrap it in the plastic wrap , then refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 5: When you’re ready to serve, combine the remaining bacon pieces and nuts in an even layer on a plate.

Step 6: Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the bacon mixture. Gently press the mixture into the cheese.

Step 7: Cut the cheese slices into strips, then use the cheese strips to form football laces. Serve with crackers and other snacks and enjoy!

Step 8: Serve with crackers and other snacks and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• Spray some non-stick cooking spray on your hands when forming the football shape. This will help prevent sticking.
• Be sure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before you begin. To ensure that it blends smoothly, you can also beat the cream cheese by itself for a minute or two before adding the other ingredients (this is super helpful if you’re like me and always forget to set it out ahead of time).
• For best results, grate your own cheese, rather than using the pre-shredded variety. I like to use an aged sharp cheddar cheese since it’s packed with flavor.
• Add even more flavor with garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or other fresh herbs.
• If you’re in a rush, you can use pre-cooked bacon crumbles instead. Just be sure to get the kind made from real bacon.

How Do I Store This?

Wrap the leftover cheese ball in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It should keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What To Serve With It

I love this football cheese ball because it can be served with all kinds of different snacks. These are some of our favorites:

• Crackers
• Pita Chips
• Mini Bagels
• Crusty Bread
• Pretzels
• Raw Veggies

Just be sure to have a cheese spreader or knife handy. The cheese ball may be too firm to dip anything straight into it, especially when you first set it out.

More Easy Appetizer Recipes

Looking for more easy appetizers for the big game? You can’t go wrong serving any of these delicious recipes!

• Easy Beer Cheese Dip
• Cold Jalapeno Popper Dip
• Mini Cheese Balls
• Pickles in a Blanket
• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Easy BLT Pinwheels
• Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Need more inspiration for what to serve at your game day gathering? You can never go wrong with this grazing table.