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Spicy Bacon Jalapeno Cheese Balls

These cheese balls combine spicy, roasted jalapenos with rich melted cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon layers. They are baked until golden and crunchy outside, while remaining creamy and spicy inside, creating a flavorful contrast in every bite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 strips bacon slices thin-cut preferred
  • 4 large jalapenos roasted and sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, for added smoky flavor
  • to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp knife
  • Cooking parchment or foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and set aside.
  2. Roast the jalapenos over an open flame or under the broiler until the skins blister and turn black, about 5-7 minutes. Carefully place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes. Once cooled, peel off the charred skins and remove seeds. Slice into thin strips and set aside.
  3. Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and let cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  5. Fold the roasted jalapeno strips and chopped bacon into the cheese mixture until evenly incorporated.
  6. Shape the mixture into 8 small balls, about the size of a golf ball, pressing gently to ensure they hold together.
  7. Wrap each cheese ball with a slice of bacon, overlapping slightly to cover fully. Secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed.
  8. Place the bacon-wrapped cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden. The cheese should be bubbling slightly.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks and transfer to a serving platter.
  11. Serve warm, garnished with extra jalapeno slices or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the crunchy, spicy bites!

Notes

For a milder version, use less jalapeno or remove seeds. You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate before wrapping and baking.