Carb bacon cheddar mini cheese balls

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Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls: The Perfect Bite-Sized Party Appetizer

If you’re searching for a low-carb appetizer that’s both indulgent and easy to make, Carb Bacon Cheddar Mini Cheese Balls are a must-try! These creamy, savory, and bite-sized delights bring together smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy cheese with herbs and spices that make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing snacks for game day, or just craving something delicious without the carbs, these mini cheese balls will be your new favorite go-to.

🧀 What Makes These Mini Cheese Balls So Irresistible

Unlike traditional cheese spreads, these mini cheese balls are portioned into perfect bites and rolled in crispy, crumbled bacon and herbs. They deliver all the flavor of a classic cheeseball but in a fun, easy-to-serve size. Plus, they’re keto-friendly, gluten-free, and can be prepared ahead of time — ideal for stress-free entertaining.

🥓 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cheese Mixture:

8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley

For the Coating:

6 slices crispy cooked bacon, finely crumbled
2 tablespoons finely chopped chives or green onions
½ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)

For Serving:

Toothpicks or pretzel sticks
Celery sticks, cucumber slices, or low-carb crackers

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Cook your bacon until it’s extra crispy. You can pan-fry it or bake it in the oven. Once cooked, drain it on a paper towel and allow it to cool completely. Then, crumble it finely. Set aside — you’ll use it later to coat the mini cheese balls.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and grated Parmesan. Mix with a hand mixer or spatula until the cheeses are well combined.

Add sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir again until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but pliable.

Fold in the chopped chives or parsley to add a burst of freshness and color.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes. Chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to shape into small balls.

Step 4: Shape the Mini Cheese Balls

Once the mixture has chilled, use a small spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form small, bite-sized balls — about 1 inch in diameter.