Description
This easy cheese ball recipe is a classic American appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. It combines creamy softened cream cheese with sharp cheddar and a flavorful blend of spices, shaped into a ball and coated with crunchy chopped pecans or crushed crackers. Ready in just over an hour including chilling time, this make-ahead cheese ball is versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball Mixture
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Coating
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans or crushed crackers
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is fully blended and smooth. If using, fold in the chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Using clean hands or plastic wrap, form the cheese mixture into a compact ball shape, ensuring it holds together firmly.
- Chill: Wrap the shaped cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This step helps the cheese ball firm up, making it easier to coat and serve.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: After chilling, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it evenly in the chopped pecans or crushed crackers until fully coated on all sides, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Serve: Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and accompany with your choice of crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- You can prepare this cheese ball up to 3 days in advance, keeping it wrapped and refrigerated.
- For added flavor variations, try mixing in crumbled cooked bacon, ranch seasoning mix, or dried cranberries into the cheese mixture before shaping.
