If you’re looking for a party snack that will have your guests talking (and coming back for seconds), look no further! This Cheese Ball Party Snack is a game-changer. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness, savory bacon, and the delicate crunch of pecans—it’s the kind of treat that makes you want to go back for just one more bite. Whether you’re hosting a get-together, watching the big game, or just treating yourself on a quiet evening, this snack will never disappoint. The best part? It’s super easy to make and will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!
So, let’s get down to business and show you how to whip up this delicious crowd-pleaser in no time.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these addictive cheese balls. Don’t worry, these
Ingredients
are simple but pack a punch of flavor:
8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature – The cream cheese serves as the base of the cheese balls, giving them that creamy texture we all love.
1 cup grated strong cheddar cheese – You want the sharpest cheddar you can find for the perfect balance of flavor. It melts in your mouth and gives the cheese balls that irresistible cheesy tang.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Crispy bacon makes everything better, doesn’t it? It adds a savory, smoky crunch to each bite.
2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives – Fresh chives give these cheese balls a touch of freshness and color. Plus, they add a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder takes things to the next level and enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A dash of black pepper adds just the right amount of seasoning to tie everything together.
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for coating) – If you’re a fan of extra crunch, these chopped pecans are a delightful touch. They also bring a nutty sweetness that balances out the rich flavors of the cheese and bacon.
Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all your
Ingredients
, it’s time to start putting this dish together. This recipe is so easy, you’ll be able to make these in no time!
1. Mix the
Ingredients
Start by combining the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chives, garlic powder, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. The key here is to make sure your cream cheese is softened—this will make it much easier to mix everything together and create that smooth, creamy texture. Use a spatula or a spoon to combine everything until it’s well mixed. It should be a thick, cheesy mixture that’s packed with flavor!
2. Shape the Cheese Balls
Once everything is well mixed, it’s time to shape your cheese balls. You can either use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Aim for about 1-inch size per ball. This is the perfect size for snacking, but feel free to make them a little bigger if you’re feeling indulgent. After forming the balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make it easy to transfer them to the fridge later.
3. Coat the Cheese Balls
Now for the fun part! In a small bowl, mix together the remaining crumbled bacon and chopped pecans. Roll each cheese ball in this mixture so that the bacon and nuts coat the outside. This gives each cheese ball an extra burst of flavor and a crunchy exterior that’s simply irresistible. If you’re not using pecans, you can just coat the balls with the bacon bits for a classic, no-frills version.
4. Let the Cheese Balls Set
Once your cheese balls are fully coated, it’s time to chill them. Pop them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let them firm up. Chilling helps the cheese balls hold their shape, making them easier to handle and eat. Plus, the flavors have a chance to meld together, making them even more delicious.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cheese balls have chilled, they’re ready to serve! Arrange them on a platter or serving tray, and watch them disappear before your eyes. These cheese balls are great as an appetizer, snack, or party food. Serve them with crackers, veggies, or even just as they are. Either way, they’ll be a hit!
Notes
Add Your Own Twist: Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can mix up the
Ingredients
by adding other herbs like parsley or dill. You could even swap the pecans for another nut, like walnuts or almonds, depending on what you have on hand.
Make Ahead: These cheese balls are perfect for preparing in advance. If you want to make them ahead of time, just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for a couple of days and are perfect for making the day before a party.
No Chives? No Problem! If you don’t have chives, you can substitute with green onions or even a little bit of dried onion flakes for a similar flavor.
Nutrition
Let’s break down the
Nutrition
for these tasty cheese balls. The following estimates are based on the entire recipe, divided into about 24 cheese balls (approximately 2-3 per serving).
Calories: 90 kcal per ball
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
These cheese balls are a great high-protein snack, with plenty of savory flavors thanks to the cheese and bacon. They’re perfect for parties, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking a few bites when no one’s looking!
Additional Information
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Image credit goes to the amazing creator. 🙏
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