If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet but still crave indulgent, savory snacks, these Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are going to be your new favorite! Packed with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoned cream cheese, these bite-sized treats are bursting with flavor. Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but they also fit perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a tasty, guilt-free snack, these mini cheese balls will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love These Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls:
- Low Carb: With minimal carbs, these cheese balls are the perfect keto-friendly snack or appetizer.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, requiring no cooking (besides bacon prep).
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to include your favorite flavors like chives, herbs, or spices.
- Make-Ahead: Perfect for meal prepping, parties, or on-the-go snacking.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for rolling)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (optional, for rolling)
How to Make Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls:
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Start by frying your bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to cool and drain the excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped chives (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined. You can use a hand mixer or mix by hand with a sturdy spoon.
Step 3: Fold in Bacon
Add the crumbled bacon into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Balls
Using a small spoon or a mini cookie scoop, scoop out small portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls (about the size of a walnut). You should get around 20 mini cheese balls from this recipe.
Step 5: Roll the Cheese Balls
For extra flavor and texture, you can roll the cheese balls in chopped parsley, chopped nuts, or a combination of both. Simply place the chopped parsley or nuts on a plate and roll each cheese ball to coat the outside.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Once all the cheese balls are rolled, place them on a plate or in an airtight container and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This helps the flavors meld together and gives the cheese balls a better texture.
When ready to serve, place them on a serving platter and enjoy! These Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls can be served with low-carb crackers, celery sticks, or just eaten on their own as a satisfying snack.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture if you like a bit of heat.
- Add Some Crunch: Roll the cheese balls in finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunchy bite.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the cream cheese and cheddar for dairy-free alternatives if you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free keto diet.
- Meal Prep: These mini cheese balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead option for parties or snacks throughout the week.
Why These Mini Cheese Balls are Perfect for Keto:
- High Fat, Low Carb: These cheese balls are rich in healthy fats from the cream cheese and cheddar, while being super low in carbs, making them ideal for a keto diet.
- Protein Boost: The addition of bacon not only adds flavor but also gives these cheese balls a protein kick, keeping you fuller for longer.
- No Guilt Snacking: Whether you’re craving something savory or hosting a keto-friendly party, these mini cheese balls satisfy hunger without ruining your carb count.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Final Thoughts:
These Low Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are a must-try for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a snack between meals, a party appetizer, or a quick lunch box addition. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to.