These Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are a perfect party appetizer or snack. The creamy and savory combination of cheddar cheese and crispy bacon makes these bite-sized treats a crowd favorite. Packed with flavor and easy to make, these mini cheese balls are ideal for serving at gatherings, holidays, or even as an afternoon snack. Their small size makes them easy to pop into your mouth, and they can be served with crackers, vegetables, or as they are. Whether you’re a bacon lover or a cheese aficionado, these mini cheese balls will satisfy all cravings.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for rolling)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pan and drain excess grease on a paper towel. After it cools, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Also, finely chop the green onions.
- Mix Cheese Base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
- Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients together using a spatula or your hands until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be smooth but thick enough to hold its shape.
- Form Mini Cheese Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons per ball) and roll them into small balls using your hands. You can adjust the size based on your preference.
- Coat the Balls (Optional): For added texture and flavor, roll the cheese balls in finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or a mixture of herbs (like parsley). This step is optional but adds a nice crunch and additional flavor contrast.
- Chill: Place the mini cheese balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This step also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.
- Serve: Once chilled, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve alongside crackers, fresh vegetables, or simply enjoy them on their own!
Calories (per ball): Each mini cheese ball has approximately 80-100 calories, depending on the size and the exact ingredients used. The addition of nuts or other coatings may slightly alter the calorie count.
Healthy or Non-Healthy: These Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are a delicious and indulgent treat, but they are more on the non-healthy side due to the high content of cream cheese, bacon, and cheese. They are rich in fats and calories, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation. However, they do offer some protein from the cheese and bacon, making them a satisfying snack. For a lighter version, you could swap the cream cheese for a reduced-fat version or try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
Enjoy these cheesy bites as a fun and flavorful snack that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!