Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (227g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 oz (113g) cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
  • 1/4 cup (30g) green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups (200g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
  2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
  3. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs (mixed with salt and pepper).
  4. Remove the chilled cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Form the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls.
  5. Roll each cheese ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Pour the vegetable oil into a deep pot or fryer. Heat over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Carefully drop a few cheese balls at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  8. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.