Chili-Cheese Balls
Cheese and green chilies are combined to create flavorful, bite-sized balls that are perfect for parties or snacking, offering a spicy, cheesy treat for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Shape mixture into 3/4-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a greased cookie sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake until set, approximately 15 to 18 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some spices like cumin or paprika. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. For a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cheese. Make sure to drain the green chilies thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the mixture, ensuring the balls hold their shape during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These chili-cheese balls are delicious served as an appetizer at gatherings or game days. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, such as ranch or salsa, for an extra flavor kick. They also make a great side dish alongside a hearty salad or can be enjoyed as a snack while watching your favorite show.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili-cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps retain their crispiness compared to microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili-Cheese Balls contains roughly 454 calories, with 7g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2427mg per serving (106% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these chili-cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven for even baking.
What can I substitute for green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use diced bell peppers instead of green chilies. For a spicier kick, consider using jalapeños or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Can these be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chili-cheese balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).