Description

These Spicy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are a crispy, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Filled with cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, fresh jalapeños, and crispy bacon, these bite-sized balls are coated in panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection, delivering a deliciously spicy and savory treat that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball Mixture

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
3 jalapeños, finely diced (fresh or pickled)
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Breading Station

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 and 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

Frying

Oil, for frying (canola or vegetable oil preferred)

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Instructions

Mix the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Shape and chill: Scoop the cheese mixture and roll into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
Prepare the breading station: Set up three separate bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs for coating.
Bread the cheese balls: Take each chilled cheese ball and roll it first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each ball is evenly coated to get a crispy crust.
Heat oil for frying: In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the balls for even cooking.
Fry the cheese balls: Fry the breaded cheese balls in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Drain and serve: Remove the fried cheese balls using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch or chipotle mayo. Optionally garnish with extra bacon bits and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

Freezing the cheese balls before breading helps them hold their shape during frying.
For milder spice, remove the seeds from jalapeños before dicing.
Use a deep thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying.
Leftover cheese balls can be frozen after breading; fry from frozen adding extra cooking time.
Can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.