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Mini Cheese Balls with Bacon and Pecans: A Perfect Party Appetizer

Looking for a bite-sized appetizer that’s both easy to make and full of flavor? These Mini Cheese Balls with Bacon and Pecans are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Creamy, cheesy centers rolled in crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, and fresh herbs create a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or any occasion, these mini cheese balls are sure to impress your guests and disappear quickly from the table!

Ingredients:

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Cheese Ball Mixture:

• 8 oz (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Coating:

• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Additional:

• Pretzel sticks or crackers for serving

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to create your Mini Cheese Balls with Bacon and Pecans:

Step 1: Prepare the cheese mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Chill the mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.

Step 3: Prepare the coating
In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, chopped pecans, and parsley. Mix well to create an even coating.

Step 4: Form the cheese balls
Remove the chilled cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.

Step 5: Coat the cheese balls
Roll each cheese ball in the bacon, pecan, and parsley mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks evenly.

Step 6: Chill until ready to serve
Place the coated cheese balls on a serving platter or tray and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and keeps the cheese balls firm.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Insert pretzel sticks into the cheese balls for easy serving, or pair them with crackers. Serve chilled and watch them disappear!

Why You’ll Love These Mini Cheese Balls:

1. Perfect party appetizer: Bite-sized and packed with flavor, these mini cheese balls are great for any gathering or event.
2. Easy to make ahead: Prepare these cheese balls a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve, saving you time on the day of your event.
3. Versatile flavors: Customize the recipe by adding spices, herbs, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
4. Crowd-pleaser: With crispy bacon, nutty pecans, and creamy cheese, these mini cheese balls are always a hit.

Mini Cheese Balls with Bacon and Pecans are a must-try recipe for anyone looking to impress their guests with minimal effort. The creamy, cheesy centers combined with the crunchy, flavorful coating make these bite-sized appetizers irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or just want a fun snack, these cheese balls are the perfect choice.

Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for party hosts and guests alike. These delicious, savory bites are guaranteed to be the star of the table!

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