Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls

 

🧀 Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls

Ingredients:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

6 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped

2 green onions, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for coating)

1/4 cup crushed nuts (optional, for coating – pecans or almonds work well)

Toothpicks or mini pretzel sticks for serving

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Instructions:

1. Make the Base:

In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon (reserve a little for rolling), green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.

2. Chill:

Cover and refrigerate mixture for 20–30 minutes to firm up (makes it easier to roll into balls).

3. Shape into Balls:

Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter).

4. Roll and Coat:

Roll each cheese ball in a mixture of reserved bacon bits, chopped parsley, and optional crushed nuts for extra texture and flavor.

5. Serve:

Insert a toothpick or mini pretzel stick into each ball. Serve chilled or at room temperature.