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Bacon-Jalapeno Cheese Balls

These cheese balls combine melted, gooey cheese with crispy bacon and spicy roasted jalapenos. They are coated in a crispy breading and baked until golden brown, resulting in a crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior with a smoky, spicy kick.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon cooked until crisp and chopped
  • 2 jalapenos roasted jalapenos seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 large egg beaten

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Mix the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar in a bowl until well combined and creamy.
  2. Fold in the chopped, cooked bacon and roasted jalapenos, distributing evenly throughout the cheese mixture.
  3. Scoop out small portions of the mixture and form into round balls using your hands; place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. In a small bowl, beat the large egg. Prepare a plate with bread crumbs mixed with smoked paprika and a pinch of salt for coating.
  5. Dip each cheese ball into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then roll them in the seasoned bread crumbs to coat thoroughly.
  6. Place the coated cheese balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart for even baking.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside.
  8. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly until they are firm enough to handle, revealing a bubbly, cheesy interior.
  9. Serve the cheese balls warm, with any preferred dipping sauces or as part of a festive platter.