Description
Quick and flavorful keto-friendly cheese balls combining crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and spicy jalapeño, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon (about 170g / 6 oz)
- 8 oz (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 medium jalapeño, finely diced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy but not burnt. Drain on paper towels and let cool, then crumble into small pieces.
- While bacon cooks, finely dice the jalapeño. Remove seeds and ribs for milder heat if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeño, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped chives, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon (15g) of the mixture and roll into tight balls. Place on a lined baking sheet or plate. Repeat until all mixture is used, yielding about 20-22 cheese balls. Chill mixture for 10 minutes if too sticky before rolling.
- Refrigerate the cheese balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing. Cook bacon slowly over medium heat for best texture. Chill cheese balls before serving to help them hold shape. Adjust jalapeño heat by removing seeds or adding more. Pre-shredded cheese may affect texture; freshly shred if possible. Do not freeze as cream cheese texture changes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cheese balls
- Calories: 180
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 9
Keywords: keto, bacon cheese balls, jalapeño, low carb, appetizer, snack, quick recipe