Description
Mini Queso Cheese Balls are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese seasoned with spices and coated in crunchy crushed tortilla chips. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, these cheesy bites are served chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely diced green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1/2 cup finely crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, mix the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, finely diced green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until a smooth and uniform mixture forms.
- Shape Cheese Balls. Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and roll them between your palms to form 1-inch diameter balls.
- Coat Cheese Balls. Spread the crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs evenly on a plate. Gently roll each cheese ball in the coating to cover it completely, ensuring an even crunchy exterior.
- Chill to Set. Arrange the coated cheese balls on a serving platter. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and color. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside crackers or sliced vegetables.
Notes
- For a spicy variation, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
- Cheese balls can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For a smoother texture, pulse the cheddar cheese in a food processor before combining with the other ingredients.
- If using gluten-free breadcrumbs or tortilla chips, this recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free.
