Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and let cool for 10 minutes. Chop into pieces and set aside.
Mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and kosher salt in a large bowl until just combined. You can use a stand mixer on low with the paddle attachment, an electric mixer on low, or a wooden spoon or spatula.
Stir in half of each of the chopped bacon, diced jalapeños, shredded cheese, red onion, and green onion with a spatula. Store the remaining filling ingredients in the refrigerator.
Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on a countertop, then add the cream cheese mixture. Bring up the sides of the plastic wrap and use your hands to form it into a ball. Cover and secure it with the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.
Remove the cheese ball about 10 minutes before serving. Spread the reserved toppings on a cutting board or large plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the toppings.
Serve with crackers, pita chips, or tortilla chips.
Notes
Storage: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap, then wrap it with an additional layer of foil and refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 1 month.
Prep ahead of time. This cheese ball needs at least 2 hours to set for it to keep its shape. You can also prepare this appetizer up to 24 hours in advance.
Use cold ingredients. Make sure the fillings and garnishes are cold to help the cheese ball keep its shape.
Use your favorite bacon. I prefer to use thick-cut hickory smoked bacon for extra smoky and savory flavor but feel free to use your favorite bacon.
Add more fillings. You can customize and add your favorite fillings. A few of my favorites are spiced pepitas, boldly seasoned peanuts or crushed almonds, crushed pretzels, chopped chipotle peppers, or extra seasonings like smoked paprika or chili powder. Just make sure to reserve half of the fillings to cover the outside of the cheese ball.
Create shapes. Get creative and form the cheese ball into a fun and festive shape based on the holiday or hosting event. Footballs for gameday, pumpkins for Thanksgiving, or bells for Christmas!