Introduction:
These Carb-Friendly Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer for parties, gatherings, or even low-carb meal planning. Packed with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a blend of flavorful seasonings, these mini cheese balls are a savory, creamy, and guilt-free treat. They’re easy to prepare, keto-friendly, and a fun twist on traditional cheese balls. Serve them with low-carb crackers or fresh veggies for the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients and Quantities:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for coating)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or almonds, optional for coating)
Tips for Success:
- Chill the mixture before rolling into balls to make it easier to handle and shape.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature so it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts to the coating mixture.
- If making ahead of time, refrigerate the cheese balls until ready to serve.
How to Make and Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Chill the mixture:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes, or until the mixture is firm enough to roll into balls.
3. Shape the cheese balls:
- Once the mixture has chilled, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a small ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used (you should get about 18-20 mini cheese balls).
4. Coat the cheese balls:
- In a shallow dish, combine the chopped parsley or chives (and nuts, if using). Roll each cheese ball in the mixture to coat them evenly.
5. Serve:
- Place the mini cheese balls on a serving plate. You can insert toothpicks into each ball for easy serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Description:
These carb-friendly bacon cheddar mini cheese balls are bursting with flavor, featuring sharp cheddar, creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh green onions. The coating of fresh herbs (and optional nuts) adds a pleasant texture and visual appeal. These bite-sized delights are creamy on the inside with a nice crunch from the bacon and coating, making them the perfect low-carb, keto-friendly snack or appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Nutritional Information: (per mini cheese ball, based on 20 servings)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion and Recommendation:
These Carb-Friendly Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are a fantastic appetizer or snack for low-carb and keto enthusiasts. They are easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for parties, game days, or even as a make-ahead snack. With their bold flavors and creamy texture, these mini cheese balls will quickly become a favorite. Pair them with low-carb crackers, cucumber slices, or celery sticks for a complete and satisfying snack!