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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the balls from sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **shredded cheese**, **breadcrumbs**, **cooked chicken or turkey** (if using), **cream cheese**, **green onions**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, and **Italian seasoning**. Season with **salt and pepper** to taste.
#### 2. **Mix the Ingredients:**
Add the **egg** to the mixture and stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be sticky and cohesive, but not too wet. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little more cream cheese or a splash of milk to bind it better.
#### 3. **Shape the Balls:**
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about **1-inch in diameter**. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about **1 inch apart**.
#### 4. **Bake the Snack Balls:**
Bake the snack balls in the preheated oven for about **12-15 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. You may want to flip them halfway through baking to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
#### 5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once baked, remove the snack balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These snack balls are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
### **Flavor Variations to Try:**
1. **Spicy Buffalo Chicken Balls**: Add **buffalo sauce** and **shredded cooked chicken** to the mixture for a spicy twist. Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing for a perfect pairing.
2. **Cheesy Jalapeño Balls**: Add **diced jalapeños** and a blend of **cheddar and pepper jack cheese** for a zesty kick. These are perfect for those who love a little heat.
3. **Sweet and Savory Bacon Balls**: Incorporate **crispy crumbled bacon** and a touch of **maple syrup** for a sweet and savory combo. These are sure to satisfy all your cravings.
4. **Veggie-Packed Balls**: For a healthier twist, mix in some **finely chopped spinach**, **carrots**, or **zucchini** to the mixture. These veggie-packed balls are perfect for getting your daily dose of greens.
5. **Italian Meatball Balls**: Add some **Italian sausage** or **ground beef** to the mix, along with **parsley**, **oregano**, and **parmesan cheese**. These taste like mini meatballs, but in a more portable, snackable form.
### **Why These Snack Balls Are So Addictive:**
– **Flavor-packed**: The combination of cheese, seasonings, and optional proteins like chicken or bacon make each bite full of savory, satisfying flavor.
– **Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside**: The exterior gets a nice crispy texture while the inside remains tender and moist.
– **Perfect for snacking**: The bite-sized portions make it easy to enjoy without overindulging (though, if you’re like my hubby, you might have a hard time stopping after just five!).
### **Conclusion:**
These snack balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat. With their savory flavors and easy-to-pop size, they’re the perfect snack for any occasion. Plus, they can be customized to suit any craving, whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or even sweet.
So, next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious bite, whip up a batch of these irresistible snack balls—just be prepared for them to disappear fast! After all, when you make something this tasty, it’s no surprise that your hubby (or anyone else) can’t stop at just one.
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