Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath. This delightful appetizer combines creamy cheeses and zesty taco flavors, enrobed in a crunchy tortilla chip coating. Not only is it full of flavor, but it also looks stunning at the center of your table, sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for coating)
- Fresh veggies and tortilla chips (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and taco seasoning. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in the chopped green onions, red bell pepper, black olives, and fresh cilantro until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into a large ball. Once formed, gently roll the cheese ball in the crushed tortilla chips until fully coated.
- To create the wreath shape, place the cheese ball in the center of a serving platter. Arrange additional tortilla chips around the cheese ball to resemble a wreath.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
- Serve with fresh veggies and extra tortilla chips for dipping.
Variation
- Add chopped cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Use nacho cheese-flavored chips for an extra cheesy taste.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure ingredients are well mixed for even flavor distribution.
- Taste and adjust taco seasoning if needed before forming the cheese ball.
- Use wax paper to help shape and roll the cheese ball for less mess.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a variety of colorful vegetable sticks for a healthy contrast.
- Pair with different flavored tortilla chips for a range of textures.
- Use as a centerpiece in a festive snack board with fruits and nuts.
Tips
- Make sure the cheese ball is well chilled to maintain its shape.
- Use herbs like parsley or rosemary for garnishing to enhance the wreath effect.
- Prepare with gloves when shaping the cheese ball for easier handling.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. - What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
Try chili powder with garlic and onion powder as an alternative. - How long can leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, pepper jack or gouda can offer different flavors.
Conclusion
Brighten your holiday spread with the Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath. Its bold flavors and festive presentation make it the perfect appetizer to share with family and friends. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this dish will become a holiday staple that everyone looks forward to year after year.
Print
Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath. This delightful appetizer combines creamy cheeses and zesty taco flavors, enrobed in a crunchy tortilla chip coating. Not only is it full of flavor, but it also looks stunning at the center of your table, sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for coating)
- Fresh veggies and tortilla chips (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and taco seasoning. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in the chopped green onions, red bell pepper, black olives, and fresh cilantro until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into a large ball. Once formed, gently roll the cheese ball in the crushed tortilla chips until fully coated.
- To create the wreath shape, place the cheese ball in the center of a serving platter. Arrange additional tortilla chips around the cheese ball to resemble a wreath.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
- Serve with fresh veggies and extra tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add finely diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
- Can be made a day ahead to save preparation time on the event day.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of cheese ball
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Cheese Ball, Holiday Appetizer, Taco Flavor, Festive Dish
