Name: Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
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; 4 green onions, roughly chopped; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers; 1 medium Roma tomato, cored and diced; 2 tbsp finely chopped white onion; 1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped

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Introduction

This Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining creamy cheeses with zesty taco seasoning and fresh vegetables, it brings a fun twist to the classic cheese ball. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests with its colorful presentation.

A festive salad wreath is shown, with three visible layers. The bottom layer is creamy with a rough texture, covered in crushed crackers or chips giving it an uneven orange and white look. The middle layer is a dense ring of fresh green parsley leaves, adding a fluffy and leafy texture. The top layer is scattered with diced red tomatoes, red bell peppers, and small cubes of light green avocado, adding bright, fresh colors. The wreath sits on a dark wooden cutting board, and the background is 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
4 green onions, roughly chopped
1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers
1 medium Roma tomato, cored and diced
2 tbsp finely chopped white onion
1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Line a 16-ounce bowl with plastic wrap, leaving extra wrap hanging over the edges to help with easy removal later.
Step 2: In a food processor, blend the cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and taco seasoning until well combined. Add half of the cilantro, green onions, and green chiles, then pulse a few times to mix without fully processing—small flecks of green should remain for texture and color.
Step 3: Transfer the cheese mixture into the lined bowl. Press firmly to smooth the surface and form a rounded shape. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Step 4: Once chilled, invert the cheese ball onto a serving platter and carefully remove the plastic wrap. Use a shot glass or spoon to create a small hole in the center, shaping it into a wreath.
Step 5: Finely chop the remaining cilantro and sprinkle it over the wreath. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomato, chopped white onion, and jalapeno pepper, then arrange this mixture in a ring around the wreath for a festive decoration.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use smoked Monterey Jack cheese or add a squeeze of fresh lime to the tomato topping.
If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeno or use a milder pepper.
Serve with tortilla chips or sliced bell peppers for a colorful and crunchy pairing.

Storage

Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Leftover garnish can be stored separately and added fresh before serving.

How to Serve

A round wreath-shaped dish sits on a white marbled surface, composed of three main layers. The base layer is light cream-colored, textured with soft, chunky pieces. Above this is a thick middle layer of green leafy parsley that looks fresh and full. The top layer is scattered with small cubes of bright red tomatoes and green avocado, adding vibrant colors across the green herb base, creating a festive look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, this cheese ball benefits from chilling overnight to firm up and allow flavors to meld. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.

What can I use instead of a food processor?

If you don’t have a food processor, soften the cream cheese well and mix all ingredients thoroughly by hand using a sturdy spoon or mixer. The texture will be a bit chunkier but still delicious.