3-Ingredient Cheesy Bites Recipe

Introduction

Sometimes the simplest recipes become the most beloved. These 3-Ingredient Cheesy Bites are quick, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With just cream cheese, cheddar, and everything bagel seasoning, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing snack that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

• 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, packed
• 2-3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and help the cheesy bites hold their shape.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly with a fork or spatula until smooth and evenly blended without large clumps.
3. Step 3: Use a teaspoon or small cookie scoop to form the cheese mixture into bite-sized balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about an inch apart.
4. Step 4: Pour the everything bagel seasoning into a shallow dish. Roll each cheese ball gently in the seasoning, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the bites are golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
6. Step 6: Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Serve warm for the best gooey texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture; reduced-fat versions may be less creamy.
• If your cream cheese is still firm, soften it with short 5-10 second microwaves before mixing.
• Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend to add variety.
• Add other seasonings such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
• Prepare the cheese balls ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze baked cheese bites by cooling completely, then freezing in a single layer before transferring to a container. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Storage

Store any leftover baked cheesy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to restore their crispy outside and melty inside. Unbaked cheese balls can be refrigerated for 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze baked bites for longer storage as noted above.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese to make these healthier?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may result in a slightly drier and less creamy texture. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and melt.

Can I use pre-shredded cheddar cheese or should I shred my own?

Pre-shredded cheese is convenient and works fine, but shredding your own cheddar from a block usually melts better and delivers a smoother, creamier texture.

3-Ingredient Cheesy Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 119 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes
• Yield: 24–30 cheesy bites 1x

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Description

These 3-Ingredient Cheesy Bites are a quick, simple, and delicious snack or appetizer made with cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and everything bagel seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights, party treats, or a fun side dish, these cheesy bites bake up golden and bubbly with a creamy, gooey interior and a flavorful, crunchy seasoning crust.

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

• 8 oz block full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups packed shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
• 2–3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare a Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Parchment paper helps keep the cheesy bites from spreading and sticking.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese: In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese using a fork or rubber spatula until evenly combined and smooth without large clumps. If needed, soften the cream cheese briefly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds, being careful not to melt it.
3. Form the Cheese Mixture into Small Balls: Use a teaspoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the cheese mixture and roll into bite-sized balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart for even baking.
4. Roll Cheese Balls in Everything Bagel Seasoning: Pour the seasoning into a shallow bowl. Roll each cheese ball gently in the seasoning until evenly coated, pressing lightly so it adheres well. Moisten hands slightly with water if needed to help the seasoning stick.
5. Bake Until Golden Brown and Bubbly: Bake the cheese balls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown, bubbly, and slightly crispy on the outside while soft and gooey inside. Watch closely as baking times may vary by oven.
6. Cool Slightly and Serve Warm: Remove from oven and let the cheesy bites cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture, but they are also delicious at room temperature. Be cautious as they will be hot straight out of the oven.

Notes

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture; reduced-fat will alter creaminess.
• Softening the cream cheese is essential for smooth mixing and batter consistency.
• Don’t overbake; cheese bites should be golden and bubbly but not dry.
• Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or blends for unique flavors.
• Try different seasonings apart from everything bagel seasoning to customize the flavor.
• You can prepare the cheese balls ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
• Baked cheesy bites freeze well; freeze cooled bites, then reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
• Serve with dips such as ranch, marinara, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or garlic aioli for added flavor.

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: 3-ingredient cheesy bites, easy appetizer, cheesy snacks, everything bagel seasoning, quick cheesy balls