If you’re searching for a show-stopping keto appetiser that’s both easy and irresistibly moreish, this Keto Cheese Ball with Crispy Bacon and Chives is your answer. Packed with creamy cheeses, savoury bacon, and fresh herbs, it’s the ultimate low-carb centrepiece for parties, gatherings, or even a decadent snack.
This cheese ball delivers all the indulgence of classic party fare without the carbs, making it ideal for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. The blend of mature cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, tangy base, while the crispy bacon and chives add texture and a burst of savoury flavour.
Simply mix, chill, and roll – the method couldn’t be easier. Serve it with crunchy cucumber slices or keto crackers for a satisfying bite that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, this cheese ball is sure to impress.
At a glance
- Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 8
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Carbs: 1.5 g
- Energy: 150 kcal
Ingredients
- 200g Cream cheese (Full-fat, softened)
- 120g Mature cheddar cheese (Finely grated)
- 60g Streaky bacon (Cooked until crisp, finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Chives (Finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- 30g Walnuts (Finely chopped, optional for coating)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Cling film
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Frying pan
Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and grated cheddar. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Add the garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Fold in half of the chopped bacon and half of the chives, reserving the rest for coating.
- Scoop the cheese mixture onto a sheet of cling film. Shape into a ball using your hands, then wrap tightly.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow flavours to meld.
- On a chopping board, mix the reserved bacon, chives, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the bacon, chive, and walnut mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a serving plate. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy, nuts
Potential swaps:
- Walnuts → Sunflower seeds — For a nut-free version, use finely chopped sunflower seeds.
- Cheddar cheese → Goat's cheese — For a tangier flavour and if you tolerate goat dairy.
- Bacon → Turkey bacon — For a lighter, pork-free option.
Serving Ideas
- Cucumber slices – crisp and refreshing, perfect for scooping.
- Celery sticks – add crunch and keep it low carb.
- Keto crackers – for a classic party feel and satisfying bite.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for best flavour and melting.
- For extra flavour, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Variations
- Add finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Swap chives for spring onions for a different herb note.
- Use smoked cheddar for a deeper, smoky flavour.
Troubleshooting
- If the cheese mixture is too soft to shape, chill for 20 minutes before forming into a ball.
- If the coating doesn’t stick, gently press it into the cheese ball with your hands.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in cling film or in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Fridge: up to 4 days
- Freezer: up to 1 months
- Reheat: Not required; serve chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredient Spotlight
Cream cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy base and helps the ball hold its shape.
Mature cheddar: Adds sharpness and depth of flavour.
Bacon: Brings savoury crunch and smoky notes to the coating.
FAQs
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Store it wrapped in the fridge and coat just before serving for best texture.
What can I serve with a keto cheese ball?
Serve with cucumber slices, celery sticks, or keto-friendly crackers for dipping.
Is this cheese ball nut-free?
The recipe includes walnuts for coating, but you can easily swap them for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
How long does the cheese ball last in the fridge?
It will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
Keto Cheese Ball with Crispy Bacon and Chives – Perfect Party Appetiser
Ingredients
- 200g Cream cheese (Full-fat, softened)
- 120g Mature cheddar cheese (Finely grated)
- 60g Streaky bacon (Cooked until crisp, finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Chives (Finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- 30g Walnuts (Finely chopped, optional for coating)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and grated cheddar. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Add the garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Fold in half of the chopped bacon and half of the chives, reserving the rest for coating.
- Scoop the cheese mixture onto a sheet of cling film. Shape into a ball using your hands, then wrap tightly.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow flavours to meld.
- On a chopping board, mix the reserved bacon, chives, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the bacon, chive, and walnut mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a serving plate. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy, nuts
- Walnuts → Sunflower seeds — For a nut-free version, use finely chopped sunflower seeds.
- Cheddar cheese → Goat's cheese — For a tangier flavour and if you tolerate goat dairy.
- Bacon → Turkey bacon — For a lighter, pork-free option.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Carbs: 1.5 g
- Energy: 150 kcal
