Print

The Best Classic Cheese Ball Recipe

A perfectly formed cheese ball recipe coated entirely in chopped pecans, sitting on a white plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy, classic cheese ball for your next party or holiday gathering. It is a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer that you can prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for coating)
  • Crackers or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, blue cheese (if using), 1/4 cup chopped nuts, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until they are completely blended and uniform. You can use a hand mixer on low speed or a sturdy spoon.
  3. Place the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a compact ball.
  4. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle. This step is important for make-ahead preparation.
  5. In a shallow dish, spread the remaining 1 cup of chopped nuts evenly.
  6. Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the chopped nuts, pressing gently so the nuts adhere to the entire surface.
  7. Return the coated cheese ball to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the coating to set.
  8. Serve your classic appetizer with your favorite crackers or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • For a Ranch Cheese Ball Variation, add 1 packet of dry ranch seasoning mix to the cheese mixture.
  • For a Jalapeno Cheese Ball Recipe, add 2 tablespoons of finely minced pickled jalapenos (drained) to the mixture.
  • For a Bacon Appetizer Recipe flavor, mix in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon before chilling.
  • You can prepare this make-ahead appetizer up to 3 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/easy-classic-cheese-ball-recipe/