Low-Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls
These Low-Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion! With a rich blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Easy to prepare and customize, these cheesy bites are not only satisfying but also fit well into low-carb diets. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cheesy delights are sure to please everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Savory and Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions creates a rich, savory flavor profile that’s hard to resist. The garlic and onion powder add an extra depth of flavor, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: These mini cheese balls are a perfect snack or appetizer for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. With no breading or fillers, they’re a great way to indulge in a cheesy treat without the carbs.
Simple and Quick: This recipe is super easy to make, with minimal ingredients and a quick prep time. Just mix, roll, and chill! It’s perfect for busy weeks when you need a tasty, yet simple snack.
Customizable: The recipe is flexible—you can add your favorite herbs, spices, or even a dash of hot sauce to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer more heat or extra creaminess, these cheese balls can be adapted to fit your flavor preferences.
Perfect for Parties and Snacking: These bite-sized treats are ideal for gatherings, game nights, or any occasion that calls for easy-to-serve appetizers. Their rich flavor and creamy texture make them crowd-pleasers, and they’re a great choice for those looking for a gluten-free, low-carb snack option.
Key Ingredients:
Cream cheese: Softened to create a creamy base and provide a smooth texture.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon and cream cheese.
Bacon: Crispy and crumbled, bringing a savory, smoky flavor to each bite.
Green onions: Fresh, finely chopped, and added for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor.
Garlic powder & onion powder: These seasonings enhance the flavor profile and add depth to the cheese balls.
Almond flour (optional): Used for rolling the cheese balls to add a bit of crunch and texture while keeping the recipe low-carb.
Low-Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls
Ingredients:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup almond flour (optional, for rolling)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the Mixture
In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 3: Optional Coating
If desired, roll the cheese balls in almond flour for an extra layer of texture.
Step 4: Chill the Balls
Place the cheese balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
Step 5: Enjoy
Serve as a delicious snack or appetizer!
Feel free to personalize the recipe with your choice of herbs or spices!
Notes:
Bacon Options: For a healthier option, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. Just ensure it’s cooked and crumbled.
Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheese types like smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even cream cheese blends for a different flavor.
Herb Add-Ins: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh or dried herbs, such as dill, chives, or parsley, to the mixture.
Coating Alternatives: If you want to change up the texture, try rolling the cheese balls in crushed nuts, seeds, or even finely chopped herbs instead of almond flour.
Make-Ahead: These cheese balls can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions: Pair these cheese balls with low-carb crackers, fresh veggies, or serve them on a cheese platter for a fun appetizer spread.
Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature!
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 130 | Total Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 250mg | Total Carbohydrates: 3g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 1g | Protein: 7g
Frequently Asked Questiions:
Can I make these cheese balls in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese balls ahead of time.
Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
They can also be made a day before serving for convenience.
What can I use instead of almond flour for coating?
If you prefer, you can use crushed nuts (like pecans or walnuts), seeds (like sesame or sunflower seeds), or even finely chopped herbs for coating instead of almond flour.
How can I customize the flavor?
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mixture, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze these cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncoated cheese balls.
Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What are some good serving suggestions?
These cheese balls pair well with low-carb crackers, fresh vegetables, or can be served on a charcuterie board alongside meats and other cheeses for a delightful appetizer spread.
Do I need to cook the bacon beforehand?
Yes, the bacon should be fully cooked and crumbled before mixing it into the cheese ball mixture.
You can use store-bought cooked bacon or cook it yourself.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer.
Keep in mind that it may slightly change the texture and flavor, but it will still work well.
How do I prevent the cheese balls from sticking to my hands?
If the mixture is sticky, you can dampen your hands with a little water or oil to make it easier to shape the balls without sticking.
What if the mixture is too dry or crumbly?
If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a small amount of sour cream or an extra splash of cream to help bind it together.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add a vibrant flavor.
Just chop them finely and mix them into the cheese ball mixture to your taste.