Description
This festive Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath is a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer that blends creamy cheeses with zesty taco seasoning and fresh vegetables. Perfect for holiday parties, it combines the ease of preparation with a fun presentation, serving as a crowd-pleasing dip adorned with mini tortilla chips arranged like a holiday wreath.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 oz taco seasoning (1 packet)
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Serving
- Mini tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Blend Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring a creamy base for your cheese ball.
- Add Flavor and Vegetables: Mix in the taco seasoning, chopped green onions, diced red bell pepper, and optional fresh cilantro. Stir everything evenly so that the seasoning and veggies are fully distributed throughout the cheese.
- Shape and Chill: Using plastic wrap, shape the cheese mixture into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up for easier handling.
- Unwrap and Arrange: Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap and place it on a serving platter. Arrange mini tortilla chips around the cheese ball forming a wreath shape, creating a festive presentation perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cheese ball wreath with extra mini tortilla chips on the side for dipping. Enjoy this savory, cheesy appetizer with guests during the Christmas season.
Notes
- For best results, allow the cheese ball to chill for at least one hour; longer refrigeration will enhance flavors.
- If cilantro is not preferred, it can be omitted without significantly affecting the dish.
- Mini tortilla chips create the wreath effect, but if unavailable, regular-sized chips can be broken into smaller pieces.
- This cheese ball can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to taste if you prefer milder or stronger spice levels.
