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)
Similar taco cheese ball wreath recipes use softened cream cheese, shredded Mexican or Monterey Jack cheese, taco seasoning, cilantro, and vegetables, often coated in tortilla chips or similar crunchy crumbs.
Step-by-step instructions
Make the taco cheese base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and taco seasoning.
- Mix until well combined and smooth.
Taco cheese ball recipes often blend cream cheese with shredded cheese and taco seasoning thoroughly at the start to evenly distribute the flavor.
- Fold in chopped green onions, red bell pepper, black olives, and fresh cilantro until evenly distributed.
Similar recipes stir in cilantro, onions, peppers, and olives or tomatoes at this stage to create color and texture inside the cheese ball.
Shape and coat the cheese ball
- Using your hands (or a spatula and plastic wrap), shape the cheese mixture into a large ball.
- Spread the crushed tortilla chips in a shallow dish.
- Gently roll the cheese ball in the crushed chips until fully coated, pressing lightly so they adhere.
Taco cheese ball recipes specifically mention pressing crushed tortilla chips or similar coatings around the outside for full coverage and crunch. Many cheese ball guides recommend using plastic wrap or wax paper to help shape and roll with less mess.
Create the wreath presentation
- Place the coated cheese ball in the center of a round serving platter.
- Arrange additional tortilla chips around the cheese ball in a ring to resemble a wreath.
Some Christmas cheese ball wreath recipes shape the cheese itself into a ring or use a pan or glass to create the hole, while others, like several taco cheese ball wreath variations, build the wreath effect by arranging chips or garnishes around a central cheese ball.
- Chill the assembled cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
Cheese ball instructions typically recommend at least 1–2 hours (often longer) of chilling to firm the texture and blend flavors.
- Serve with fresh veggies and extra tortilla chips for dipping.
Variations and flavor ideas
- Add chopped cooked bacon for a smoky flavor; bacon is a common mix-in in holiday cheese ball wreaths and Mexican cheese balls.
- Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist and extra color.
- Use nacho cheese–flavored or spicy tortilla chips for an extra cheesy or zesty coating, similar to recipes that suggest flavored chips or pepita–tortilla crumb coatings.
You can also adjust heat by adding minced jalapeños, green chilies, or hot sauce, as seen in taco and Mexican cheese ball recipes.