Classic Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

This classic cheese ball is a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for any gathering. Creamy, tangy, and coated in crunchy pecans, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup minced green bell pepper
• 4 scallions, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 small lemon)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup chopped pecans, for rolling
• To serve: crackers, fresh vegetables such as celery sticks or radishes, chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, grated cheddar, minced green bell pepper, scallions, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mash everything together thoroughly using a large fork. Taste and adjust the flavors as needed.
2. Step 2: Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a clean surface or cutting board.
3. Step 3: Divide the cheese mixture roughly into two equal parts. Scoop one half and shape it into a ball using your hands or a large spatula.
4. Step 4: Place the cheese ball onto the pecans and gently roll it around with your hands or plastic wrap until it’s fully coated with pecans.
5. Step 5: Repeat the rolling process with the second cheese ball.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables, or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked cheddar instead of sharp cheddar for a smoky twist.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra freshness.
• Try rolling the cheese ball in finely chopped bacon or crushed pretzels for a different coating texture.

Storage

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. If refrigerated longer, the flavors will intensify but the texture may firm up.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the cheese ball a day or two in advance enhances the flavors. Just keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of pecans for the coating?

You can use chopped walnuts, almonds, crushed pretzels, or crispy bacon bits for a different texture and flavor on the outside of the cheese ball.

Classic Cheese Ball Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 96 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 cheese balls, serves approximately 8-10 people 1x

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Description

This classic cheese ball is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, fresh bell pepper, scallions, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder, it’s rolled in chopped pecans for a delightful crunch. Serve it chilled with crackers, fresh vegetables, or chips for a crowd-pleasing snack.

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Ingredients

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Cheese Ball

• 1 pound (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup minced green bell pepper
• 4 scallions, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 small lemon)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Coating

• 1 cup chopped pecans, for rolling

To Serve

• Crackers
• Fresh vegetables, such as celery sticks or radishes
• Chips

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Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, grated sharp cheddar, minced green bell pepper, minced scallions, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mash the ingredients together thoroughly using a large fork until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
2. Prepare Pecans: Spread the chopped pecans evenly onto a clean surface or cutting board. This will be used to coat the cheese balls for added texture and flavor.
3. Form Cheese Balls: Divide the cheese mixture roughly into two equal halves. Using a large spatula or clean hands, scoop one half of the mixture and shape it into a ball.
4. Coat with Pecans: Place the cheese ball onto the bed of chopped pecans. Using your hands or plastic wrap, gently roll the ball around in the pecans, pressing lightly to ensure it is completely coated. Repeat this process with the second half of the cheese mixture to form another cheese ball.
5. Serve or Refrigerate: You can serve the cheese balls immediately alongside crackers, fresh vegetables, or chips. Alternatively, wrap each cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one week to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

Notes

• For best flavor, allow the cheese ball to chill for at least an hour before serving.
• You can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds if preferred.
• The cheese ball can be shaped into one large ball or multiple smaller ones depending on your preference and serving size.
• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Adjust Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice to taste for desired tanginess.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheese ball, appetizer, party snack, cream cheese appetizer, pecan cheese ball, no cook appetizer