Here’s the full recipe for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls:
Ingredients:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup minced fresh chives
- 1 cup jalapeños (deseeded & diced)
- 2 cups finely crumbled bacon or more
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, minced fresh chives, diced jalapeños, 1/2 cup of finely crumbled bacon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until the mixture is fluffy and evenly combined. Set aside.
- On a shallow plate, spread out the remaining 1 cup of finely crumbled bacon. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out a portion of the cheese mixture and shape it into a ball using your hands. Roll the cheese ball in the crumbled bacon until it’s evenly coated. Repeat this process until all of the cheese mixture has been used and formed into balls.
- Once all the cheese balls are coated in bacon, refrigerate them until they are firm and ready to serve. This will help them hold their shape and make them easier to handle.
- Serve the bacon jalapeño popper cheese balls chilled and enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack!
These cheese balls are perfect for parties, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a flavorful and indulgent appetizer. Enjoy!
Certainly! Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers related to Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls:
Q: Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. They can be made up to a day in advance.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon if you prefer. Just make sure it’s finely crumbled before coating the cheese balls.
Q: Can I make these cheese balls without jalapeños? A: If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the jalapeños or reduce the amount used. You can also substitute them with other ingredients like diced bell peppers for a similar texture.
Q: Can I freeze these cheese balls? A: While you can freeze them, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to refrigerate them instead for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: What can I serve these cheese balls with? A: These cheese balls are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with crackers, pretzels, or sliced vegetables for dipping. They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing or spicy mayo.
Q: How long will these cheese balls last in the refrigerator? A: These cheese balls will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.