Savory Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball Delight
This irresistible Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball Delight is the ultimate party starter that combines the creaminess of cheddar and cream cheese with the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon. Perfect for entertaining, this delicious spread is easy to whip together and will have your guests asking for the recipe. Whether you're celebrating New Year's Eve or hosting a casual gathering, serve this delightful cheese ball with an array of crackers, fresh veggies, or bagel chips to elevate your snacking experience. Not only is it flavorful and festive, but it can also be customized with your favorite toppings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing appetizer!
N/A
Servings
175
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream Cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1 - 1 1/2 cups (preferably Cabot's Seriously Sharp)
Bacon
5 - 6 slices (cooked and crumbled)
Parsley Flakes
1 teaspoon
Dried Chives
1 1/2 teaspoons ((or 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped))
Hot Sauce
1 dash
Garlic Powder
1 dash
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts
to taste (optional for rolling)
Additional Crumbled Cooked Bacon
to taste (optional for rolling)
Instructions
1
In a medium-large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, parsley flakes, dried chives, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
2
Using a spatula or a hand mixer, blend the ingredients until they are well combined and smooth. Make sure to break down any lumps of cream cheese for an even texture.
3
Prepare a large piece of plastic wrap and spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Gather the edges of the plastic wrap around the cheese and twist to shape it into a smooth ball, ensuring it is tightly sealed.
4
If desired, you can roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch, or in additional crumbled bacon for extra flavor before sealing it in the wrap.
5
Refrigerate the cheese ball for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the mixture to firm up.
6
Unwrap the cheese ball before serving, and present it on a platter surrounded by an assortment of crackers, bagel chips, and fresh vegetable sticks.
Nutrition Information
13.75g
Fat
1.875g
Carbs
7.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball Delight?
It is a party appetizer that combines cream cheese, extra-sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon into a flavorful spread.
How many calories are in a serving of this cheese ball?
Each serving contains approximately 175 calories.
What is the fat content for this recipe?
The recipe contains 13.75g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in the Savory Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball?
It is low in carbs, containing only 1.875g per serving.
How much protein does this cheese ball provide?
Each serving provides 7.5g of protein.
What kind of cheddar cheese is recommended?
The recipe suggests using Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese, specifically Cabot's Seriously Sharp.
How should the cream cheese be prepared?
The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smooth texture.
Does the bacon need to be cooked before mixing?
Yes, the bacon should be cooked and crumbled before being added to the mixture.
Can I use fresh chives instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute the dried chives with 1 tablespoon of fresh, snipped chives.
Is this cheese ball spicy?
It contains a dash of hot sauce for depth of flavor, but it is not considered a spicy dish.
How long does the cheese ball need to refrigerate?
It should be refrigerated for at least 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
What are the optional ingredients for rolling the cheese ball?
You can roll the ball in chopped pecans, walnuts, or additional crumbled cooked bacon for extra crunch.
What can I serve with this cheese ball?
It pairs well with crackers, bagel chips, and fresh vegetable sticks like carrots or celery.
How do I shape the mixture into a ball?
Spoon the mixture onto plastic wrap, gather the edges, and twist tightly to form a smooth ball shape.
Do I need a hand mixer to make this recipe?
You can use either a hand mixer or a spatula to blend the ingredients until they are smooth.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 9 ingredients listed, including the optional toppings for rolling.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is described as the ultimate party starter and a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to better develop during refrigeration.
What spices are used in this cheese ball?
The recipe uses parsley flakes, dried chives, and garlic powder.
How do I ensure there are no lumps in the spread?
Use softened cream cheese and blend thoroughly with a mixer or spatula to break down any lumps.
Can I use different types of nuts for the coating?
Yes, while pecans and walnuts are suggested, you can use any nuts you prefer or omit them entirely.
How much bacon is needed for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 5-6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon inside the mixture.
Is there any garlic in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes a dash of garlic powder for seasoning.
What should I do if the cheese ball is too soft?
Simply keep it in the refrigerator for a bit longer until it reaches the desired firmness.
Can this recipe be customized?
Absolutely, it can be customized with your favorite toppings or different types of cheeses.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as an appetizer, party food, and snack spread.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, its mild, savory flavors make it a hit with both children and adults.
How much cream cheese is required?
One 8-ounce block of cream cheese is needed.
How much hot sauce should I add?
The recipe calls for just one dash of hot sauce.
Should the cheese ball be served cold?
Yes, it should be chilled until serving to maintain its shape and texture.