These Bacon and Chives Cheese Balls are the perfect savory treat for any occasion! Combining creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and the freshness of chives, these bite-sized delights are sure to be the hit of your next party. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re the perfect appetizer or snack that will have everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for coating)
- Extra chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the ingredients:
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside to cool. Chop the fresh chives finely, and shred the cheddar cheese if not already pre-shredded. - Mix the cheese base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. - Incorporate bacon and chives:
Stir in the crumbled bacon and chopped chives, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. - Form the cheese balls:
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dampen your hands with water or coat them in a bit of olive oil. - Coat the cheese balls:
Roll each cheese ball in chopped pecans or walnuts, pressing gently to make sure they stick. This step is optional but adds a delicious crunch to each bite. - Chill and serve:
Place the cheese balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese balls to firm up. - Garnish and enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with extra fresh chives for an added burst of color and flavor. Serve these savory cheese balls on a platter with crackers, fresh veggies, or simply on their own for a tasty treat.