Patrick Oconnell
Bacon cheese balls are a delicious snack and a great appetizer for parties and holidays. They are super easy to make and can be made ahead of time. The base of a bacon cheese ball is usually made with cream cheese, shredded cheese, onion, garlic, nuts, and bacon bits. They are then rolled in bacon bits, pecans, walnuts, poppy seeds, and other ingredients to add flavor and texture. Bacon cheese balls are best served with something crunchy and dippable like crackers, bread slices, pretzels, and vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, celery, etc).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Serving options | Crackers, bread slices, vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers), pretzels |
| Storage | Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days; can be frozen for up to a month |
| Preparation time | 15-20 minutes |
| Chilling time | 1-2 hours or up to 24 hours |
| Occasions | Parties, holidays, game days, potlucks, football games, New Year's Eve |
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What You'll Learn
Crackers
Some specific recommendations for crackers include Wheat Thins, Ritz, or butter crackers. These crackers have a sturdy texture and a neutral flavour that won't overpower the cheese ball. You can also experiment with other types of crackers, such as water crackers, rice crackers, or seeded crackers, depending on your personal preference.
To elevate your cracker-and-cheese-ball pairing, consider creating a charcuterie board. Include an assortment of crackers, cured meats, and other complementary foods. For example, you could add some sliced salami, pepperoni, or prosciutto to the board, along with grapes, olives, or sliced apples. This way, your guests can create their own custom bites and explore different flavour combinations.
When serving the crackers with the bacon cheese ball, it is recommended to have the cheese ball at room temperature. This ensures a softer and more spreadable texture, making it easier for guests to dip the crackers. You can also provide a small knife or spreader alongside the cheese ball to facilitate the spreading process.
Overall, crackers are a versatile and convenient option to serve with a bacon cheese ball. They require minimal preparation and can be easily sourced from most grocery stores. With their crunchy texture and salty flavour, crackers create a delightful contrast to the creamy and indulgent bacon cheese ball.
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Vegetables
When preparing the vegetables, consider cutting them into sticks or slices that are easy to pick up and dip into the cheese ball. You can also get creative and experiment with different types of vegetables that complement the flavors of the bacon and cheese.
For a colorful and nutritious addition, include some cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness can offer a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the bacon cheese ball. If you want to add a refreshing element, consider serving slices of cool and crisp watermelon.
You can also grill or roast certain vegetables to enhance their flavor and create a unique texture. For example, grilled eggplant slices or roasted asparagus spears could be interesting and tasty options to serve alongside the bacon cheese ball.
The key is to provide a variety of vegetables that offer different flavors, textures, and colors to create a well-rounded and visually appealing spread to accompany the bacon cheese ball.
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Bread slices
When choosing a bread to serve with a bacon cheese ball, consider a type of bread that has a hard crust. This will provide a satisfying contrast in texture when spread with the soft cheese ball. A sourdough loaf, for example, would be an excellent choice. Its tangy flavour and chewy crust would complement the rich, salty flavours of the bacon cheese ball.
For a more well-rounded snack, consider toasting the bread slices and adding a drizzle of olive oil or butter. This will enhance the flavour and texture of the bread, making it an even more enjoyable pairing with the cheese ball. You could also offer a variety of bread options, such as a rustic multigrain loaf or a nut and seed-filled bread, to add even more texture and flavour to the snack.
To elevate this simple snack even further, consider adding some fresh herbs or a light spread of flavoured butter to the bread slices. A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley will add a bright, fresh flavour to each bite. Alternatively, a compound butter infused with garlic, herbs, or sun-dried tomatoes can take this simple snack to the next level.
Finally, when serving the bacon cheese ball with bread slices, be sure to provide a knife or spreader to make it easy for your guests to spread the cheese ball onto their bread slices. This will ensure that each bite is perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of cheese and bacon in every mouthful.
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Pretzels
Pretzel Sticks
Pretzel sticks can be inserted into mini bacon cheese balls, making them easy to grab and eat. They add a salty, crunchy contrast to the creamy and cheesy balls, making them a convenient and delicious finger food for parties and gatherings.
Pretzel Coating
Another option is to coat the outside of a bacon cheese ball with crushed pretzels. This can be done by rolling the cheese ball in chopped pretzels before serving, creating a salty and crunchy exterior.
Pretzel Crackers
Pretzel crackers or pretzel crisps can be served on the side as a dipping option for the bacon cheese ball. They provide a similar salty and crunchy texture to the pretzel sticks and coating, but in a cracker form.
Presentation Ideas
When serving bacon cheese balls with pretzels, you can get creative with the presentation. For a playful touch, insert a pretzel stick into the center of each cheese ball, providing a convenient and crunchy handle. You can also place the cheese ball on a bed of crushed pretzels or surround it with whole pretzels to incorporate the pretzel theme into your platter.
In conclusion, pretzels are a versatile and tasty accompaniment to a bacon cheese ball, offering a salty and crunchy contrast to the creamy and cheesy flavors. Whether used as a coating, a dipper, or a stick, pretzels enhance the flavor and presentation of this appetizer.
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Cured meats
When creating a charcuterie board with cured meats to accompany a bacon cheese ball, consider the following tips:
- Variety: Offer a selection of different cured meats to create a well-rounded board. Include a mix of textures and flavours, such as thin, delicate slices of prosciutto, along with heartier options like salami or chorizo.
- Balance: Ensure there is enough cured meat to accompany the cheese ball. As a guide, aim for 2-3 slices of meat per person, depending on the size of the group and the other items on the board.
- Presentation: Arrange the cured meats attractively on the board, fanning out the slices or rolling them into rosettes. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easier for guests to take their desired amount.
- Accompaniments: In addition to the cured meats, include other complementary items on the charcuterie board, such as crackers, breadsticks, or sliced baguette. Pickled vegetables, olives, and fresh herbs can also add a nice contrast to the rich flavours of the meats and cheese ball.
By following these suggestions, you can create a delightful charcuterie board featuring cured meats that will enhance the enjoyment of a bacon cheese ball.
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Frequently asked questions
Crackers and veggies are two of the best options to serve with a bacon cheese ball. Some common veggies served with the snack include carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, and celery.
A bacon cheese ball can last up to 24-48 hours, depending on how soggy the bacon gets. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-4 days.
A bacon cheese ball is a great appetizer for parties and holidays. It can be served with cured meats as part of a charcuterie board. It can also be served with a pretzel sticking out, making it inviting to pick up.
A bacon cheese ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week without the bacon coating. It can be frozen for up to a month, but the texture of the cream cheese will change.
