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Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls

These creamy and smoky bacon jalapeño popper cheese balls are a quick, fun, and flavorful appetizer that disappears quickly from the platter. They can be customized to suit your spice preference and are perfect for parties.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 20 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheese Mixture
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth mixture.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack, or a mix Grate your own cheese for the best texture.
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely minced Adjust the heat level by removing seeds and membranes.
  • 2 tablespoons minced chives or green onion For added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 pinch smoked paprika For depth of flavor.
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional) For extra creaminess.
Coatings
  • 4 to 6 slices crispy bacon, finely chopped, divided For rolling and as a topping.
  • 1 cup toasted panko Can use crushed crackers as an alternative.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans For additional crunch.
  • 1/4 cup chopped chives For rolling.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook bacon until crisp. Drain, cool, and finely chop. Divide into two piles: one for the cheese mixture and one for coating.
  2. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, jalapeños, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and half the bacon. If you want it silkier, mix in a spoon of sour cream or yogurt.
  3. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
  4. Chill the bowl for 20 to 45 minutes until the mixture firms up.
  5. Set up bowls with your coatings. Scoop the mixture with a small spoon or mini cookie scoop and roll into 1 inch balls.
Coating and Serving
  1. Roll each ball in bacon, panko, chives, or nuts. Put them on a plate and chill 10 minutes more before serving so they set.
  2. Serve with crackers, pretzel chips, celery sticks, or cucumber slices. Toothpicks make them extra easy for parties.

Notes

For best texture, make ahead of time and store in an airtight container. They last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For freezer options, freeze the formed balls before coating and store in a freezer bag for up to one month.