Anahiem Bacon Cheddar Ball
This recipe crafts a savory bacon cheddar ball featuring softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crispy bacon, and Anaheim chili with a hint of cumin. It's a simple, no-bake appetizer perfect for entertaining, offering a delightful blend of creamy, smoky, and subtly spicy flavors.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Spatula or Spoon For mixing ingredients
- 1 Chef's knife For chopping bacon and chili pepper
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Plastic Wrap For shaping and chilling
Ingredients
Main
- 1, 8 oz block of Cream Cheese thawed
- 1/4 cup Aldi's Happy Farms Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
- 1 pack of Bacon Oscar Meyer fully cooked 12 slices
- 0.5 cup chili anahiem pepper 1 medium pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Sea Salt to taste optional
Instructions
- Finely chop the cooked bacon, reserving some for rolling and some for mixing into the cheese ball.
- Dice the Anaheim chili pepper into very small pieces, removing seeds for less heat if desired.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the thawed cream cheese, shredded mild cheddar cheese, finely diced Anaheim pepper, ground cumin, and a portion of the chopped bacon.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Taste the mixture and add sea salt to taste, if using, mixing again.
- Using clean hands, shape the mixture into a cohesive ball.
- Place the remaining finely chopped bacon on a plate or shallow dish.
- Roll the formed cheese ball in the chopped bacon, pressing gently to ensure the bacon adheres evenly to the surface.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
1. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture. Avoid microwaving as it can alter texture.2. For superior flavor and texture, cook fresh bacon until crispy, then finely chop, rather than using pre-cooked. This adds a depth of smoky flavor and a better textural contrast.3. Adjust the amount of Anaheim chili based on desired heat level. Roasting and peeling the chili beforehand can enhance its flavor and mildness.4. Chill the cheese ball for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and to achieve a firm, easily spreadable consistency.5. For an elevated presentation, consider rolling the finished ball in finely chopped fresh chives or toasted pecans.