Spicy Bacon Cheese Balls with Jalapeño Twist
These Spicy Bacon Cheese Balls are an irresistible snack with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a zesty kick from jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 cheese balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spice level)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Cooking spray or oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine the Cheesy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and finely chopped jalapeños. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Add the Flavorings: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
- Shape the Cheese Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the Balls: Once all the cheese balls are formed, place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat for Cooking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer or a deep pot for frying.
- Bake or Fry: If baking, lightly spray the cheese balls with cooking spray or brush them with a little oil, then place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. If frying, carefully lower the cheese balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve the spicy bacon cheese balls warm and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
Chilling helps the cheese balls hold their shape during cooking. Feel free to customize spice levels and cheese varieties!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg