Name: Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 (16 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1/2 packet taco seasoning; 2 tbsp finely chopped white onion; 1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers, drained; 1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed and finely chopped (divided); 4 green onions, thinly sliced (divided); 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1 medium Roma tomato, cored and finely diced (divided)

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Introduction

This Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath is a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining creamy cheese with zesty taco seasonings and fresh toppings, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a centerpiece on your party table.

The image shows a white round plate with a ring-shaped dish in the center, made of light beige creamy spread. The top of the dish is covered with chopped fresh green onions and chopped leafy greens, with several small bright red cherry tomatoes scattered on top. To the right side of the ring-shaped dish, there is a silver spoon resting on the plate, with a woman's hand holding it, scooping a portion. Surrounding the ring-shaped dish on the left and bottom sides are several round golden-brown crackers arranged neatly along the edge of the plate. The background and surface under the plate have a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (16 oz) package cream cheese, softened
8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 packet taco seasoning
1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed and finely chopped (divided)
4 green onions, thinly sliced (divided)
1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers, drained
1 medium Roma tomato, cored and finely diced (divided)
2 tbsp finely chopped white onion
1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Ensure your 16 oz package of cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free base.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the 1/2 packet of taco seasoning. Mix until well incorporated and no visible streaks remain.
Step 3: To the cream cheese mixture, add the 2 tbsp finely chopped white onion, the seeded and finely chopped medium jalapeno pepper, the drained diced green chile peppers, about half of the finely chopped fresh cilantro, and about half of the thinly sliced green onions. Gently fold all ingredients until evenly distributed, avoiding overmixing.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gently bring the edges of the plastic wrap up and twist them to form a general ball shape. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
Step 5: Once thoroughly chilled and firm to the touch, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place it on your desired serving platter.
Step 6: Using lightly moistened hands (to prevent sticking), gently press down on the center of the cheese ball and simultaneously push outwards to form a circular wreath shape with a hole in the middle. Aim for relatively even thickness for consistent serving and presentation.
Step 7: In a separate medium bowl, combine the 8 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese, about half of the finely diced medium Roma tomato, and the remaining thinly sliced green onions. This will be your vibrant topping mixture.
Step 8: Carefully sprinkle the prepared topping mixture over the entire surface of the cheese wreath. Gently press the topping onto the cheese ball with your hands to ensure it adheres well, covering all sides, including the inner and outer edges.
Step 9: For an extra festive touch, arrange a few extra fresh cilantro sprigs and the remaining finely diced Roma tomato strategically around the wreath to mimic holly berries or festive decorations.
Step 10: Optionally, place the fully assembled and decorated wreath back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the topping to adhere even more firmly and ensures the cheese ball is perfectly chilled for serving. Serve with an assortment of dippers such as tortilla chips, carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the cream cheese mixture before chilling.
Substitute Monterey Jack cheese with shredded cheddar for a sharper taste.
Use mild or hot diced green chile peppers depending on your spice preference.
To make shaping easier, chill the mixture longer or use gloves to form the wreath.

Storage

Store the cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If refrigerated longer, the texture may firm up a bit more. Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to soften slightly. Leftover cheese ball can be served with chips or spread on crackers.

How to Serve

The image shows a round salad wreath on a wooden board with a white marbled background. The wreath has three visible layers: the bottom layer consists of chopped orange cheese, giving a chunky texture; the middle layer is a lush bed of leafy green herbs and lettuce, adding fullness and brightness; the top layer is sprinkled with finely diced red tomatoes, scattered evenly across the greens, creating a colorful contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the cheese ball in advance?

Yes, this cheese ball improves as it chills. Prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate to let the flavors meld together perfectly.

What are good dipping options for the cheese ball wreath?

Tortilla chips, carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips all pair wonderfully with the cheesy, spicy flavors of this wreath.