Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls Recipe
These Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties or snacking. Combining creamy softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, savory bacon, and fresh chives, then coated in crunchy pecans, these bite-sized treats deliver bold flavors with a satisfying crunch while keeping carbs low.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for bacon cooking, if not pre-cooked)
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 mini cheese balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, crumbled cooked bacon, chopped fresh chives, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly blended and smooth.
- Form the cheese balls: Using your hands, take small portions of the cheese mixture and roll them tightly into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they hold together firmly.
- Coat with pecans: Roll each cheese ball in the finely chopped pecans so that they are evenly coated on all sides, providing a crunchy texture.
- Chill before serving: Place the pecan-coated cheese balls on a plate or tray. Refrigerate them for at least one hour to allow them to firm up and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother cheese balls.
- You can use smoked or maple-flavored bacon to add additional depth to the flavor.
- For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with finely chopped crispy bacon or crushed pork rinds.
- Make cheese balls a day ahead to save time; keep refrigerated until serving.
- Serve with low-carb crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for a complete appetizer platter.
Keywords: low carb appetizer, bacon cheddar cheese balls, keto snacks, party dip, cheese ball recipe, pecan cheese balls
