Bacon cheddar mini cheese balls

 Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are the ultimate bite-sized party appetizer—salty, savory, creamy, and completely irresistible.

This recipe is easy to make ahead and always disappears fast. Here’s a classic version with a few pro tips.

🧀 Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls

Prep Time: 20 mins | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 mins | Yield: About 20-24 mini balls

Ingredients

For the Cheese Balls:

• 8 oz (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• 5-6 slices bacon, cooked until very crisp, cooled, and finely crumbled

• 2 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts)

• ½ cup (60g) finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for coating)

• 1 clove garlic, minced (or ¼ tsp garlic powder)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1-2 tbsp milk or mayonnaise (if needed for binding)

For the Coating (Choose One or Mix):

• Classic: Remaining crumbled bacon & chopped green onions

• Nutty: Finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds

• Herby: Finely chopped fresh parsley or chives

• Spicy: A pinch of cayenne pepper mixed into any coating

Instructions

1. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, most of the crumbled bacon (save some for coating), green onions, garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Use a hand mixer, a sturdy spoon, or clean hands to mix until thoroughly combined. If the mixture seems too dry to hold together, add milk or mayo, 1 teaspoon at a time.

2. Chill: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This makes it much easier to handle and roll.

3. Prep Coatings: While the mixture chills, prepare your chosen coatings on separate small plates or shallow bowls.

4. Roll: Using a teaspoon, cookie scoop, or your hands, scoop out portions (about 2 tsp each) and roll them into tight, smooth balls.

5. Coat: Roll each ball in your chosen coating until fully covered. Press gently so the coating adheres.

6. Set: Place the finished balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Final Chill: Refrigerate for at least another 30 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and allows the flavors to meld.

✅ Key Tips for Success

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your cheese balls grainy and less creamy. Block cheese grated fresh is essential for a smooth texture.

• Crispy Bacon is Key: Cook the bacon until very crisp. Let it drain and cool on paper towels before crumbling. This ensures it adds texture and doesn’t make the mixture greasy.

• Make-Ahead Magic: These are perfect for preparing ahead. You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them (without fresh herb coatings) for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

• Serving: Serve chilled or at cool room temperature. Provide toothpicks for easy grabbing. They pair perfectly with crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or celery sticks.

🍽️ Perfect for:

• Holiday parties and game day spreads

• Potlucks and picnics

• An elegant addition to a charcuterie board

Enjoy these savory, crowd-pleasing bites! They strike the perfect balance between rich cheese, smoky bacon, and a touch of freshness from the green onions.