If you’re looking for the ultimate party appetizer, these Bacon Jalapeño Cream Cheese Balls are a must-try! They’re creamy, cheesy, spicy, and full of flavor, making them perfect for game day, holidays, or any gathering. With smoky bacon, spicy jalapeños, and rich cream cheese, this recipe is an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chopped pecans or crushed buttery crackers (for coating)
- Optional garnish: extra crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or fresh parsley
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the balls: Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1–2 inches wide).
- Coat the balls: Roll each ball in chopped pecans (or crushed crackers) until evenly coated.
- Chill: Place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve: Arrange on a serving platter, garnish with extra bacon, jalapeños, or parsley if desired, and serve with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.
Prep & Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 12–15 balls
Tip: For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in, or mix in a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
