Description
These Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack! Crispy on the outside and loaded with spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon on the inside. They are easy to make and great for parties, game days, or anytime you’re craving a spicy, cheesy treat!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cheese Balls:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 4 strips crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
Prepare the Cheese Balls:
- Mix the Filling – In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, chopped jalapeños, bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form Balls – Scoop small portions and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a tray and freeze for 20-30 minutes (this helps them hold their shape while frying).
Coat the Cheese Balls:
- Set Up Coating Stations – In separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the Balls – Roll each cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Repeat for a second layer for an extra crispy coating.
Fry the Cheese Balls:
- Heat Oil – In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry – Carefully drop a few cheese balls into the oil and fry for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve – Enjoy hot with ranch, spicy mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Add extra jalapeños if you love more heat!
- Double-coating the cheese balls prevents cheese from leaking while frying.
- Serve with honey mustard or chipotle mayo for a flavor twist.
