BACON, CHEDDAR & ROASTED RED PEPPER CHEESE BALL 🌶️🧀🥓 "A savory, cheesy bite of pure delight" Serves: 10–12 as an appetizer. Ingredients: For the cheese ball: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese ½ cup cooked bacon, finely chopped ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and finely diced 3 tbsp finely chopped scallions 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp onion powder ¼ tsp black pepper Salt, to taste For the coating: ½ cup cooked crispy bacon, finely chopped ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 2 tbsp finely chopped roasted red peppers 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or scallions For serving: Golden crackers Pretzels Toasted baguette slices Fresh vegetable sticks Instructions: Prepare the ingredients: Cook the bacon until crispy, then drain and finely chop. Drain the roasted red peppers well and dice them into small pieces. Mix the cheese filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Add the chopped bacon, roasted red peppers, scallions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined. Shape the cheese ball: Spoon the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the mixture and shape it into a ball. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to hold its shape. Prepare the coating: Mix the crispy bacon, cheddar, roasted red peppers, and parsley or scallions on a plate. Coat the cheese ball: Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it in the coating, pressing lightly so the ingredients stick all around. Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving board surrounded by crackers, pretzels, and fresh vegetables. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving for a softer, creamier texture. Enjoy!🌶️🧀🥓