Description
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are the ultimate party appetizer that combines a creamy, spicy filling with a crunchy coating. These bite-sized cheese balls are packed with the flavors of cream cheese, cheddar, pepper jack, bacon, and jalapeños – creating an addictive snack that will disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds and membranes removed for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped chives
Instructions
1. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined and smooth.
2. Chill the Mixture: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
3. Shape into Balls: Once chilled, use a spoon or small scoop to form the cheese mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll them between your hands to smooth the surface.
4. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, crumbled bacon, parsley, and chives.
5. Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in the coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
6. Garnish and Serve: Top each cheese ball with a jalapeño slice and sprinkle with extra herbs if desired. Serve immediately with crackers, chips, or veggie sticks, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
These Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are the perfect spicy, creamy, crunchy party appetizer that will disappear fast!
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 20