Here’s a fun, bite-sized appetizer recipe for Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls—perfect for parties or snacks!
🧀🥓 Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls
🛒 Ingredients (Makes ~24 balls)
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6–8 slices cooked bacon, finely crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 cup crushed nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) or extra bacon for rolling
🔪 Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir in crumbled bacon and green onions if using.
2. Form the Balls
- Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, form mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Coat the Balls
- Roll each ball in crushed nuts or extra bacon until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Serve
- Serve cold as a snack, or warm slightly in the oven (350°F / 175°C for 5–7 minutes) for gooey texture
- Perfect with toothpicks for easy party serving
💡 Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
- Can make mini sandwiches by sandwiching the cheese balls between crackers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
If you want, I can also give a super-quick 15-minute version that uses pre-shredded cheese and microwave bacon to save prep time.
