🧀🥓 Low-Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls
Creamy, smoky, cheesy, and bite-sized — these mini cheese balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser or low-carb snack!
Why You’ll Love These Mini Cheese Balls:
✅ Low-carb, high-fat, and keto-friendly
✅ Packed with bold cheddar and smoky bacon
✅ Great for parties, game days, or on-the-go snacking
✅ Ready in just 20 minutes
✅ Customizable with herbs, nuts, and seasonings
Ingredients (Makes 20–24 mini cheese balls):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, finely crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onion or chives
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional for Rolling & Coating:
Choose one or mix several for fun textures and flavors:
- Additional bacon bits
- Finely chopped parsley or green onion
- Crushed pecans or almonds
Instructions:
1. Mix the Cheese Ball Base
In a medium bowl, combine:
- Softened cream cheese
- Shredded cheddar
- Crumbled bacon
- Green onions or chives
- Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
Use a spoon or hand mixer to blend until smooth and fully combined.
2. Shape the Mini Cheese Balls
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture.
- Roll between your palms into small balls.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used (you’ll get around 20–24 mini balls).
Tip: Slightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking.
3. Roll for Extra Flavor (Optional)
Roll each mini cheese ball in your favorite coating, such as:
- More bacon bits for double the smoky crunch
- Chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness
- Crushed nuts for a satisfying bite
4. Chill or Serve
- Chill: Place cheese balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
- Serve: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks or skewers for easy grabbing.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Meal Prep: Great to keep on hand for quick, protein-rich snacks.
Make It Your Own!
- Try pepper jack or smoked gouda instead of cheddar
- Add finely diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Mix in ranch seasoning or a dash of hot sauce
- Swap bacon for prosciutto crumbles or turkey bacon if preferred
Would you like a printable version or a larger batch version for events? I can also provide a vegetarian or nut-free variation if you need!