
A Bacon and Cheddar Cheese Ball is a savory appetizer made by blending cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon bits into a ball, often coated in chopped nuts or herbs. It is a classic American party dish, particularly popular in the Midwest and South, and is typically served with crackers or fresh vegetables.
This dish is very high in fat and protein, with minimal carbohydrates, making it a keto-friendly option. A single serving provides a significant amount of calcium and sodium, and a rough calorie estimate is 250-300 calories per 2-tablespoon serving.
| Calories | 270 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbs | 3 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 µg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Selenium | 8 µg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.5 µg |
| Zinc | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 2 µg |
| Choline | 18 mg |
Per 1/8 of the ball (about 60 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
The cheese ball became a symbol of casual American entertaining in the mid-20th century, evolving from a simple spread into a decorative centerpiece. Nutritionally, it offers a dense source of energy and protein but is also high in saturated fat and sodium.