Looking for a satisfying snack that won’t throw your low-carb goals out the window? These mini cheese balls are everything you want in a quick, protein-packed bite—creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor. Whether you need an easy appetizer for a party, a midday pick-me-up, or a fun addition to your lunch plate, these mini cheese balls check all the boxes.
Made with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is incredibly simple and can be customized with your favorite herbs, nuts, or seasoning blends. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of rich cheese, smoky bacon, fresh chives, and a hint of garlic, with optional crunchy pecans on the outside for added texture.
Let’s walk through how to make them step by step, with helpful tips and answers to the most common questions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These mini cheese balls come together with minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. They’re naturally low in carbs and high in flavor.
Cream Cheese as the Base
Cream cheese is the star of this recipe. You’ll need an 8-ounce block, softened to room temperature. This allows it to mix smoothly and hold the other ingredients together.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar
One cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese brings bold flavor and adds a firmer texture. Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts and blends better than pre-packaged shreds.
Fresh Chives
Two tablespoons of finely chopped fresh chives add a light, oniony flavor and a pop of color. If you don’t have chives, green onions work just as well.
Garlic Powder and Black Pepper
A half-teaspoon of garlic powder and a quarter-teaspoon of black pepper add just enough spice to balance the creaminess of the cheese.
Chopped Pecans (Optional)
For extra texture and nutty flavor, add a quarter cup of finely chopped pecans to the outer coating. This step is optional, but highly recommended for added crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
These mini cheese balls come together quickly and easily—no baking required. Just mix, roll, coat, chill, and serve.
Step 1: Mix the Cheese Ball Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, chopped chives, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Use a spatula or spoon to mix until the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.
If you’re preparing ahead of time, you can cover this mixture and refrigerate it for a few hours or even overnight.
Step 2: Shape the Cheese Balls
Once your filling is ready, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion into a ball about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray as you go. This keeps them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
You should get roughly 16 to 20 mini cheese balls from this batch, depending on how large you make them.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In a small bowl, combine the remaining crumbled bacon with the chopped pecans. This is the coating that gives the cheese balls a flavorful and crunchy outer layer.
If you’re skipping the pecans due to allergies or personal preference, just use the crumbled bacon on its own or substitute with crushed nuts of your choice.
Step 4: Roll and Coat
Roll each cheese ball in the bacon and pecan mixture until fully coated. Gently press the coating into the surface to help it stick.
Return each coated ball to the parchment-lined tray once finished.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate the cheese balls for at least 30 minutes. This step helps them firm up and enhances the flavor as everything melds together.
If you’re making them in advance, they can be chilled for several hours or even overnight—just be sure to cover the tray to keep them fresh.
Step 6: Serve
Once chilled and firm, these mini cheese balls are ready to serve. They’re perfect as-is, or you can add toothpicks for easy grab-and-go snacking.
Serve them as a party appetizer, afternoon snack, or with fresh veggies for a light lunch option.
Tips for the Best Mini Cheese Balls
- Soften your cream cheese before mixing. It makes combining ingredients much easier and creates a smoother texture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better flavor and a more even blend.
- Make ahead of time. These cheese balls actually taste better after chilling for a few hours, making them perfect for parties or meal prep.
- Switch up the coating. Try rolling them in chopped almonds, crushed pistachios, or even grated parmesan for a different finish.
- Add a touch of heat. Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you like a spicy kick.
- Serve with crunchy low-carb dippers. Think celery sticks, cucumber rounds, mini bell peppers, or even low-carb crackers.
Variations to Try
This recipe is flexible and fun to experiment with. Here are a few variations to keep things fresh:
- Everything Bagel Cheese Balls: Mix in a teaspoon of everything bagel seasoning and coat the outside with more of the same.
- Ranch-Style Cheese Balls: Swap garlic powder for ranch seasoning and coat with a mix of bacon and crushed sunflower seeds.
- Southwest Mini Cheese Balls: Add cumin, smoked paprika, and a bit of salsa to the filling, and coat with crushed tortilla chips (low-carb versions are available).
FAQs
Are mini cheese balls keto-friendly?
Yes! These cheese balls are naturally low in carbs and high in fat, making them perfect for keto or other low-carb lifestyles. Just be mindful of any added ingredients or coatings.
How long do mini cheese balls last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days. For the best texture, don’t stack them—lay them in a single layer or with parchment between layers.
Can I freeze mini cheese balls?
Yes, but without the coating. Freeze the uncoated cheese balls on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge and roll in your coating of choice before serving.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Try mixing in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, gouda, or even blue cheese for a more intense flavor.
What if I don’t eat pork?
You can skip the bacon altogether or use a vegetarian alternative. Smoked almonds, sun-dried tomatoes, or seasoned tofu crumbles work well as substitutes.
Do I need to toast the pecans?
Toasting is optional, but it brings out the nutty flavor and adds extra crunch. If you have time, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes before using.
Final Thoughts
These mini cheese balls are proof that low-carb eating doesn’t have to be boring. They’re creamy, rich, savory, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re prepping snacks for the week, hosting a party, or simply looking for something quick and satisfying, this recipe delivers.
They come together quickly, store well, and can be tailored to match your favorite flavors. So next time you’re craving a tasty, low-carb treat, skip the chips and roll up some of these irresistible cheese balls instead.