Cheese Ball Recipe

A Cheese Ball is a classic party appetizer that combines creamy cheeses, savory seasonings, and crunchy coatings into one irresistible, make-ahead snack. It’s easy to customize with your favorite flavors and pairs perfectly with crackers, pretzels, and veggies. Whether for a holiday spread, game day, or casual gathering, this retro favorite never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheese ball is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. You can make it ahead of time, chill it until needed, and roll it in your choice of toppings right before serving. It’s endlessly customizable—smoky, spicy, herbaceous, or nutty, depending on your preferences. It also makes a great centerpiece for a snack board or charcuterie tray.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chopped green onions or chives
• Salt and black pepper
• Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts), for coating
• Optional: cooked crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, ranch seasoning, or hot sauce for added flavor

Directions

1. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Form the ball: Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to firm up.
3. Coat the cheese ball: Once chilled, roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts or your preferred coating until evenly covered.
4. Serve: Place on a serving plate surrounded by crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies. Let sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 10–12
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chilling time: 1–2 hours
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy cheese ball: Add minced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Bacon ranch version: Stir in crumbled bacon and a packet of ranch seasoning.
• Holiday flair: Mix in dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a festive touch.
• Italian-style: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese.
• Mini cheese balls: Form into bite-sized portions for individual servings.

Storage/reheating

Wrap any leftover cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve chilled or allow to come to room temperature before serving. Cheese balls are not ideal for freezing, as the texture may change.

FAQs

Can I make a cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually best when made a day in advance to let the flavors meld.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is a classic, but you can mix in gouda, pepper jack, or blue cheese for variety.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, use crushed pretzels, herbs, or bacon instead of nuts for coating.

Can I freeze a cheese ball?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture when thawed.

What do you serve with a cheese ball?

Serve with crackers, pretzels, crostini, or fresh veggies like celery and bell peppers.

How do I keep it from sticking to my hands?

Chill the mixture slightly before shaping and use plastic wrap to help form the ball.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat will provide a creamier texture and better flavor.

How long does a cheese ball last in the fridge?

Up to 5 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make a sweet cheese ball?

Yes, mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and chocolate chips, and roll in crushed cookies or graham crackers.

How do I transport a cheese ball?

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a secure container with ice packs if needed.

Conclusion

This Cheese Ball Recipe is a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Creamy, customizable, and packed with flavor, it’s a must-have for any gathering. With endless variations and simple ingredients, this cheese ball is sure to become a go-to favorite for your next party or celebration.

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