Football Season is here. Time for family friendly dishes that can be made before kick off. Hearty dishes will give the team something to munch while during those food studded commercial breaks. Regardless if your team wins or loses I’m certain you’ll find this quick and delicious appetizer to be a real touchdown! It’s so easy you can get the kids involved with decorating the “football”. You will want to make this at least an hour before game time as the cheese needs to soften up again before serving. Bring this pepperoni pigskin to the next football party you attend and get ready to score some serious compliments.

16 oz (1 lb.) cream cheese, softened and at room temperature

1 5 oz package of pepperoni, 1/4 cup chopped, the remaining saved whole

1/2 cup shredded cheddar, plus more for garnishing

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

1/4 cup chives, sliced thin

1/2 tablespoon dried oregano

2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

1. Using either a stand mixer, a hand mixer, a food processor, or a strong arm and spatula mix together the cream cheese, chopped pepperoni, cheeses, chives, dried oregano, and bacon bits.
2. Place the cream cheese mixture on a sheet of parchment and shape into a football shape as best you can. Roll up the parchment in a football shape. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30-60 minutes. Remove from the wax paper and make sure to fix the shape of the football if necessary. Layer pepperoni slices on the cream cheese mixture. Garnish with additional cheese to make the laces.
3. Let sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before serving with crackers or crudite.