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Spicy bacon jalapeño popper cheese balls on a platter.
Lady Maria

Spicy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls

These Spicy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are a party appetizer that combines creamy cheese, spicy jalapeño, and salty bacon for an irresistible flavor. They are easy to make and can be customized to your spice preference, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon about 6-8 slices
  • 1/4 cup diced jalapeños fresh or pickled, adjust to your spice preference
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or breadcrumbs, for coating optional

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • medium bowl
  • Fork or spatula
  • Plastic wrap
  • Spoon or small cookie scoop
  • Shallow dish
  • Plate or tray

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook bacon until crispy. Baking on a sheet pan for 15-20 minutes is recommended. Cool and crumble into small pieces.
  3. Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if needed, being careful not to melt it.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the mixture to firm up.
  6. Once chilled, use a spoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the cheese mixture.
  7. Roll each portion between your palms to form a ball, about 1-inch in diameter. Lightly dampen your hands with water if the mixture is sticking.
  8. If using a coating (pecans or breadcrumbs), place it in a shallow dish. Roll each cheese ball in the coating, pressing gently to help it adhere.
  9. Place the finished cheese balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least another 30 minutes to allow them to firm up completely.
  10. Before serving, take the cheese balls out of the refrigerator about 10-15 minutes beforehand to soften slightly.
  11. Arrange on a platter and serve with crackers, pretzels, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality bacon and cheese. Adjust the spice level by using pickled jalapeños or removing the seeds from fresh ones. These cheese balls can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the cheese balls before coating. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving and coat just before serving to prevent sogginess. Experiment with different coatings such as chopped chives, everything bagel seasoning, or crushed potato chips.