Easy Football Cheese Ball
If you’re looking for the ultimate game-day snack, a football cheese ball is your MVP. I love how easy it is to make, and the football shape makes it so festive—it’s almost too cute to eat (almost!).
Plus, it’s the perfect centerpiece for your snack table, especially if you’re pairing it with Small Charcuterie Board Ideas.
Whether you’re hosting a big Super Bowl bash or just hanging out with friends, this cheesy, flavorful appetizer always scores a touchdown.
My favorite part? You can get super creative with toppings to make it your own.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through how to make a football cheese ball, fun topping ideas, and even more appetizers to try!
How to Make A Football Cheese Ball
Alright, let’s talk about the real star of the game-day party—the football cheese ball. This recipe is packed with cream cheese, Colby Jack cheese, green onions, jalapeños, and, of course, bacon.
Plus, it’s seasoned with a spicy, smoky blend of Cajun seasoning, cumin, chili spice, and a little hot sauce for that touchdown-worthy kick. Honestly, it’s got all my favorite things in one delicious, edible football.
First, you whip up this cheesy concoction like a boss. A hand mixer is your BFF here because you’ll be blending all those amazing ingredients into creamy perfection. Once your cheese mixture is ready, it’s time to get a little hands-on—literally.
Shape it into a football, wrap it up like a gift in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge. This part is crucial because nobody wants a saggy cheese ball (trust me).
After a good chill sesh, it’s game time! Coat your cheese masterpiece in crispy bacon bits, giving it that irresistible crunch. If some pieces are being stubborn and not sticking, just give them a little press—they’ll get the memo.
Finish it off with sour cream “laces,” and boom, your football cheese ball is ready to hit the field (aka the snack table). It’s cheesy, spicy, and absolutely the crowd-pleaser you didn’t know you needed. Honestly, you might need to make two because this one disappears fast.
Creative Toppings to Decorate Your Football Cheese Ball
Your football cheese ball is already a winner, but let’s take it to the next level. Why settle for just bacon when you can get a little fancy?
Here are some topping ideas to give your cheese ball that extra flair (and get everyone talking).
The Classic Bacon Bliss
Okay, bacon is non-negotiable for me—it’s the MVP of cheese ball toppings. That crispy, salty crunch is pure magic. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, mix in candied bacon for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Nutty Touchdown
Crushed nuts, like pecans or almonds, are perfect if you want to bring a little crunch and elegance to the party.
Bonus points: they stick beautifully to the cheese ball and add that earthy flavor that balances the cheese’s richness.
Herbaceous Wonder
Want to keep it light and fresh? Roll your cheese ball in a mix of fresh parsley, dill, and chives. It not only tastes amazing but also looks super vibrant on the table. Plus, it’s a great excuse to say, “Look, I added greens!”
The Spicy Play
For my fellow heat lovers, crushed red pepper flakes or even a sprinkle of chili powder on top will give your cheese ball that extra fire. Pair it with some jalapeño slices for garnish, and you’ve got a spicy touchdown in the making.
Cheesy Overload
Why not roll the cheese in… more cheese? Shredded Parmesan or cheddar works wonders. It’s like wrapping a gift in layers of deliciousness. Mix and match these toppings, or go wild with your own ideas! The goal is to make your football cheese ball look so good that people almost don’t want to eat it—almost.
More Appetizer Ideas To Try!
Game nights and football? Count me in! Hosting a game-watching party is all about creating an atmosphere of fun, excitement, and, of course, incredible food.
Whether it’s finger foods, sweet treats, or creative snacks, these ideas will keep your guests cheering both on and off the field.
- Take your snack game up a notch with a Game Day Football Charcuterie Board. This is one of my favorite Creative Charcuterie Boards, and it’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd during the game. Pair it with Football Jello Shots for an unforgettable game night.
- Planning to throw the ultimate football party? These 20 Game Day Football Themed Foods are guaranteed to keep your guests hyped. From savory snacks to sweet bites, this list has everything you need to make your food table the MVP of the party.
- Want something that’s both adorable and a total crowd-pleaser? Football Marshmallows (Pops) are hands-down one of the cutest treats to make. These marshmallow pops are as easy to create as they are to eat, making them perfect for your football-themed spread.
- Let your guests sip (and cheer) in style with these Game Winning Football Jello Shots! These green shots look just like football turf and are some of the Best Jello Shot Recipes you’ll ever serve. They’ll be the talk of your party!
- Chocolate Football Candy Apples are a touchdown-worthy snack for any sports fan. Sweet, chocolatey, and perfectly themed, these treats will remind you of Fall Party Foods while adding a playful twist to your game day.
Whether you’re watching for the game or just for the food, these ideas will make every football night a winning experience!
Easy Football Cheese Ball
Ingredients
Football Cheese Ball
- 16 ounces cream cheese 2 8-ounce blocks, softened 2 tbsp sour cream
- 2 cups Colby Jack cheese shredded
- 1 tbsp cajun spice
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili spice
- 1 tbsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp crushed red peppers
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1/2 cup bacon chopped
- 1/4 cup diced jalapenos
- 1 tsp hot sauce
Coating
- 1 cup chopped bacon
Instructions
- Using a hand mixer and a large mixing bowl, combine together cream cheese, sour cream, and spices. Add the bacon, jalapenos, green onions, and Colby Jack cheese to the cream cheese mixture.
- Use a spatula to mix to combine.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Spray your hands with nonstick baking spray and mold the cheese mixture into a football shape. Lay out a piece of plastic wrap and place the cheese ball on top.
- Wrap the cheeseball with the plastic wrap tightly so it can hold its shape.
- Refrigerate for 4 hours.
- Unwrap the cheese ball and carefully roll it in the chopped bacon.
- Gently press the toppings into the sides, if needed.
- Pipe sour cream to create the laces on the football cheese ball.
I know that this football cheeseball recipe will 100% improve any game nights of watch parties that you’ll host! Let me know your thoughts below!
Susan B
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