Description
Crispy, cheesy bacon cheese balls with a spicy kick of jalapeño, perfect for quick and easy party snacks that impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 200g)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (225g)
- 1 medium jalapeño, finely diced
- 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Optional: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until just crispy but still a little bendy. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces. Let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Fold in the finely diced jalapeño and chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
- Stir in the chopped bacon until combined.
- Optional: Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using hands or a small cookie scoop. If desired, roll the balls in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned and firm to the touch.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
Chilling the mixture before shaping makes it easier to handle. Use thick-cut bacon for best texture and flavor. Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat. Rolling in panko breadcrumbs adds crunch. Can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 balls
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 7
Keywords: bacon cheese balls, jalapeño, party snacks, appetizer, easy recipe, cheesy, spicy, quick snack