If you’re following a low-carb diet but still crave something satisfying and flavorful, this recipe for Low-Carb Cheese Balls is perfect for you. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, savory bacon, and fresh chives, these cheese balls pack a punch of flavor without the carbs. They’re great for quick snacking, as a party appetizer, or even as a side for your meals. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is both easy to prepare and bursting with taste. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a fast snack option, these cheese balls are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Active Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 10 minutes (optional, for better flavor blending)
Serving Size: Makes about 12 small cheese balls
Ingredients
- Cream cheese – 8 oz, at room temperature
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup, grated
- Cooked bacon – 6 slices, crumbled into pieces
- Fresh chives – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
- Chopped pecans (optional, for coating) – 1/4 cup
Preparation Steps
- Mixing the Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and grated sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses are well blended, forming a smooth, creamy texture. It helps to have the cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Next, add the crumbled bacon and chopped chives to the mixture. The bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor, while the chives provide a touch of freshness and color.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder and black pepper. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed.
- Forming the Cheese Balls:
- Using a small spoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture into bite-sized amounts. Roll each portion into a small ball with your hands. This recipe should yield approximately 12 small cheese balls, but you can adjust the size as desired.
- Optional Pecan Coating:
- If you prefer a bit of crunch, roll each cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat the exterior. This adds a delightful texture contrast and a touch of nutty flavor that complements the cheesy interior perfectly.
- Chilling (Optional):
- For the best flavor and a firmer texture, place the cheese balls in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together more thoroughly and makes them easier to handle.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Arrange the cheese balls on a serving platter, optionally garnished with extra chives or a few whole pecans for a decorative touch. These cheese balls can be served as-is or accompanied by low-carb vegetable sticks, such as celery or bell pepper slices, to enhance the flavor.
Additional Tips:
- Make it Spicy: For a hint of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Herb Variations: Fresh parsley, dill, or even a touch of green onion can be added for additional flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These cheese balls also taste great the next day after the flavors have fully mingled.
These Low-Carb Cheese Balls are not only easy to make but are also a flavorful and satisfying snack option for anyone on a low-carb diet. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and aromatic chives creates a delicious bite that’s hard to resist. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these cheese balls can be prepared ahead of time and served whenever you’re ready. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to please. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, these cheese balls offer maximum taste with minimal effort.