Bacon Cheddar Cheese Balls

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Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cream cheese (softened, room temp)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
  • ½ cup green onions (finely chopped)
  • 10–12 slices crispy bacon (cooked and finely chopped)
  • 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs (beaten, for coating)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne.
  2. Mix well until fully combined and creamy.
  3. Fold in half of the bacon bits and the chopped green onions.

2. Shape into Balls

  1. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out about 1½ tablespoons of mixture.
  2. Roll into balls with your hands (lightly oiling your hands helps prevent sticking).
  3. Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (this helps them firm up before frying).

3. Coating

  1. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed crackers + the rest of the bacon bits.
  2. Roll each cheese ball in flour → dip in egg wash → coat in cracker-bacon mixture.
  3. Place back on the tray.

4. Frying

  1. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the cheese balls in small batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve

  • Arrange on a platter and serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard.

Tips & Variations:

  • Air Fryer Option: Spray with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 7–9 minutes until crispy.
  • Jalapeño Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños for spicy cheese balls.
  • Make Ahead: You can freeze the coated balls before frying. Fry straight from frozen (add 1–2 mins extra cooking time).
  • Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, gouda, or Monterey jack for variety.

Benefits of This Recipe:

  • Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
  • Can be customized with different cheeses and spices.
  • Easy to make in bulk and store for later.

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