introduction
This recipe makes warm, cheesy bacon jalapeño popper cheese balls. They are spicy, creamy, and crunchy. You can make them fast and share with friends. For a sweet snack idea, try the Blueberry Cheesecake Protein Balls recipe on our site for a different flavor.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a tasty party snack. It is easy and uses simple ingredients. Kids and adults both like them. They cook quickly and you can change the heat level.
how to make Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
Mix the cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños in a bowl. Season and shape the mix into small balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until all sides are golden. Drain on paper towel and serve warm.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 2-3 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped jalapeños. Mix until well combined.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form mixture into small balls and roll them in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the cheese balls until golden brown on all sides.
- Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
how to serve Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
Serve warm on a platter. Offer ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup for dipping. They pair well with cold drinks and fresh veggies.
how to store Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
Cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
tips to make Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easy mixing.
- Remove seeds from jalapeños if you want less heat.
- Chill the balls before frying to help them hold shape.
- Fry in batches to keep oil temperature steady.
- For less oil, bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden, about 12-15 minutes.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped green onions for fresh flavor.
- Use pepper jack cheese for more spice.
- Wrap each ball in a thin slice of bacon before frying for extra bacon flavor.
- Make a baked version and brush with oil for a lighter snack.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a lined tray for 12-15 minutes or until golden.
Q: How do I make them less spicy?
A: Remove the jalapeño seeds and membranes. Use only one jalapeño or skip it.
Q: Can I freeze the balls?
A: Yes. Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Q: What dipping sauce works best?
A: Ranch, sour cream with chives, or a sweet chili sauce all work well.
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm, cheesy bacon jalapeño popper cheese balls that are spicy, creamy, and crunchy. Perfect for parties!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 2–3 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped jalapeños. Mix until well combined.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small balls and roll them in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the cheese balls until golden brown on all sides.
- Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Chill the balls before frying to help them hold shape. Use room temperature cream cheese for easy mixing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg