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A white plate holds eight Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Balls coated in shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bits of bacon. A bowl of green onions sits in the background on a white cloth.
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Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Balls

These Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Balls are a fun, flavorful appetizer made with cream cheese, bacon, cheddar, and crunchy panko. Great for game day, holiday parties and snacking!
Prep Time1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American/ Mexican
Servings: 10
Calories: 154kcal
Author: Maggie Unzueta

Ingredients

  • 2 8-oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 tablespoon sour cream
  • 3 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • ¾ cup cooked and crumbled bacon divided
  • ¾ cup chopped jalapeño seeds removed, divided
  • 2 tablespoon salted butter
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoon chopped green onion

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
  • Mix in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, ½ cup of the bacon, and ½ cup of the chopped jalapeño.
  • Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and scoop a generous spoonful of the mixture into the center.
  • Wrap tightly and shape into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
  • Chill the cheese balls in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours, or until firm.
  • While they chill, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the panko and toast until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
  • In a shallow bowl, combine the toasted panko with the remaining cheddar, bacon, jalapeño, and green onion.
  • Unwrap each cheese ball and roll it in the coating mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
  • Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Storing Instructions: Keep the cheese balls refrigerated until you're ready to serve. They can be made ahead and stored for 2–3 days in an airtight container. For the best texture, wait to roll them in the coating mixture until just before serving.
For extra heat, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in.
What can I serve these with? They’re delicious on their own but also pair well with crackers, celery sticks, or pretzels.

Nutrition

Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 88mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 446IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 133mg | Iron: 0.5mg