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Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
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Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are creamy, spicy, and packed with smoky bacon and gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a party appetizer or snack, these bite-sized cheese balls balance the heat of fresh jalapeños with the richness of cream cheese, all coated in a crunchy layer of crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs. Easy to make, customizable in spice level, and great for make-ahead preparation, they’re sure to impress your guests with bold flavors and a delightful texture contrast.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Add-ins

  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crisp and finely crumbled
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust to taste)
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Coating

  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the bacon until crisp and crumble finely. Chop the jalapeños, removing seeds if you prefer milder heat. Grate the cheddar cheese and slice the green onions so everything is ready for mixing.
  2. Mix the Cheese Base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined to create a creamy and flavorful base.
  3. Fold in Bacon and Jalapeños: Gently add the crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, and chopped green onions into the cheese mixture. Mix evenly to ensure every cheese ball has a balanced spicy and savory taste.
  4. Shape the Cheese Balls: Scoop portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray to ease handling.
  5. Coat with Crunch: Roll each cheese ball in crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs, covering them evenly to add a crispy outer layer that contrasts with the creamy inside.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the formed cheese balls for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps firm them up and enhances the flavors melding together.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free base.
  • Adjust jalapeño quantity and seed inclusion to control the heat.
  • Ensure bacon is cooked evenly for best texture—crispy, not chewy.
  • If the mixture is too soft, add a bit more shredded cheddar to firm up.
  • Chilling is essential for the cheese balls to hold their shape and deepen flavor.
  • Make ahead by preparing and shaping the balls in advance; store refrigerated or frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: Bacon Jalapeño Popper, Cheese Balls, Appetizer, Party Snack, Cream Cheese, Spicy Snack, Jalapeños, Bacon, Cheese Ball Recipe

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/bacon-jalapeo-popper-cheese-balls/