Description
These Spicy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are a deliciously crispy, cheesy appetizer with a kick of jalapeño heat and smoky bacon. Perfectly breaded and fried to golden perfection, they make an irresistible party snack or game day treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball Mixture
- 113g cream cheese, softened
- 120g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Breading Stations
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Ball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, finely diced jalapeños, crumbled cooked bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form and Chill: Roll the cheese mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making them easier to bread.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Prepare three separate bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs—to create an assembly line for breading the cheese balls.
- Bread the Cheese Balls: Take each chilled ball and roll it first in the flour to coat, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and lastly coat it evenly with panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crunchy exterior, you may optionally dip the balls a second time in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the breaded cheese balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions and crumbled bacon if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure to chill the cheese balls thoroughly before breading to prevent them from falling apart during frying.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level.
- Double breading is optional but highly recommended for a crunchier texture.
- Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for perfect frying results.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, as these are best enjoyed fresh and hot.