CARB BACON CHEDDAR MINI CHEESE BALLS

Introduction

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and low-carb snack that’s perfect for any occasion? These Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are an easy-to-make appetizer or snack that will satisfy your cravings for savory flavors without breaking your dietary goals.

Whether you’re on a keto diet, following a low-carb lifestyle, or simply looking for a delicious and fun finger food, these mini cheese balls are just what you need. Packed with creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, these bite-sized snacks deliver an irresistible combination of creamy, smoky, and tangy flavors.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious mini cheese balls:

8 oz cream cheese (softened): The base of the cheese ball mixture, giving it that creamy, smooth texture.

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This cheese adds the rich, sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cream cheese.

1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled: The smoky, savory flavor of bacon adds a crunch and richness to the cheese balls.

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped: Adds a subtle crunch and a mild onion flavor that complements the cheese and bacon.

1 tsp garlic powder: A touch of garlic powder enhances the overall savory flavor of the cheese balls.

1 tsp onion powder: This amplifies the onion flavor, giving it an added depth.

Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings bring everything together, balancing out the richness and adding flavor.

1/2 cup almond flour (optional, for rolling): If you want an extra layer of texture, roll the cheese balls in almond flour.

This step is optional but adds a light crunch to the exterior.

Feel free to experiment with ingredients. You can switch out the cheddar for other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a bit of spicy pepper jack for a more robust flavor. If you’re not a fan of green onions, chives can also make a great substitute.

Instructions

Making these bacon cheddar mini cheese balls is incredibly simple. Here’s how you can prepare them:

Mix Ingredients: Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl.

It’s essential to soften the cream cheese to make the mixing process easier and to ensure the texture of the cheese balls is smooth.

Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to the bowl.

Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. You can use a spoon, spatula, or your hands to do this. The mixture should come together in a thick, creamy consistency.

Form Balls: Once your mixture is ready, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Each ball should be about 1 inch in diameter, but you can adjust the size based on your preferences.

This step is simple, but be sure to pack the mixture tightly to avoid any loose or crumbly balls.

Coat (Optional): If you want an extra texture on the outside of your cheese balls, roll them in almond flour. This step is optional but adds a nice, slightly crispy coating that contrasts well with the creamy inside.

It also helps the cheese balls keep their shape. Simply place the almond flour in a shallow bowl and roll each cheese ball in it until fully coated.

Chill: After you’ve shaped and coated your cheese balls, place them on a plate or tray. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Chilling the cheese balls helps them set and makes them easier to handle and serve. Plus, the flavors have time to meld together, making the taste even better.

Serve: After they’ve chilled, your carb bacon cheddar mini cheese balls are ready to be served! They make a great snack, appetizer, or party food.

Serve them as is, or pair them with a low-carb dipping sauce such as ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an added punch.

Tips

Softening Cream Cheese: If you forget to leave your cream cheese out to soften, you can quickly soften it in the microwave.

Place the unwrapped cream cheese on a microwave-safe plate and microwave it for about 15-20 seconds, checking it periodically to ensure it doesn’t melt.

Customize Flavors: Feel free to add extra spices or herbs to the mixture to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Paprika, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper can bring a subtle smoky heat to the mix. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill can add a touch of brightness.

Make Ahead: These mini cheese balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

This makes them a perfect option for meal prepping or preparing for a party. You can even freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Varying the Cheese: Swap out the sharp cheddar for other cheeses to create different flavor profiles.

A mixture of cream cheese and goat cheese will give the cheese balls a tangy kick, while a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella offers a creamier, milder taste. You can even mix in some blue cheese for a more intense flavor.

Storage

These carb bacon cheddar mini cheese balls store wonderfully, making them an excellent option for meal prepping or leftovers. Here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator: Keep the cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers if stacking them to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezer: If you want to make a large batch in advance, you can freeze the cheese balls.

Arrange them on a tray in a single layer and place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to one month.

When ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Serving Suggestions

These mini cheese balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways. Here are some fun ideas for how to serve them:

As an Appetizer: Serve these cheese balls on a platter with an array of low-carb snacks such as sliced cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or keto crackers. The savory cheese balls will be a hit at any party or gathering.

On a Charcuterie Board: Include these mini cheese balls as part of a larger spread with meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and pickles. Their rich and smoky flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or pepperoni.

With Dips: If you’re looking to add more flavor, serve these mini cheese balls with a dipping sauce.

Try classic ranch, sour cream, or a spicy mayo. You could also make a keto-friendly guacamole or avocado dip to serve alongside them.

As a Snack or Meal: Pair the cheese balls with a side of greens like a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal. They also make a great addition to a lunchbox or an easy after-school snack.

Conclusion

These Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, satisfying snack that’s perfect for low-carb and keto diets.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, preparing them for meal prep, or simply indulging in a quick bite, these cheese balls are guaranteed to impress. Easy to make, versatile in flavor, and oh-so-tasty, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.