Classic Cheese Ball

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheese ball is easy to make, easy to customize, and always a hit. It can be made ahead of time, saving you stress on party day, and it pairs well with just about any cracker or dipper. With its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s one of those nostalgic recipes that feels both comforting and impressive. Plus, you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion.

Ingredients

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

• Cream cheese, softened
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Green onions or chives, finely chopped
• Crushed pecans or walnuts (for coating)
• Optional: parsley, smoked paprika, hot sauce, dried herbs

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Fold in the chopped green onions or chives.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball using clean hands or wrap it in plastic wrap and mold into a ball.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Once chilled, roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts, fresh herbs, or a mix of both to coat evenly.
6. Place on a serving platter and serve with crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 cheese ball, serving about 8–10 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball: Add ranch seasoning and cooked, crumbled bacon.
• Spicy Cheese Ball: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for heat.
• Everything Bagel Cheese Ball: Roll in everything bagel seasoning instead of nuts.
• Cranberry Nut Cheese Ball: Add dried cranberries to the mix and coat with crushed pecans.
• Mini Cheese Balls: Roll into smaller balls and serve on toothpicks for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, for up to 5 days.
• Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream cheese may change.
• Keep covered until ready to serve to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Leftovers can be spread on sandwiches or bagels.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just wait to roll in the coating until shortly before serving.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this nut-free?

Absolutely. Roll the cheese ball in chopped herbs, seeds, crushed crackers, or everything seasoning instead.

How do I soften cream cheese quickly?

Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave it for 10–15 seconds until soft but not melted.

What should I serve with it?

Serve with crackers, pretzels, baguette slices, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips.

Can I make this into mini cheese balls?

Yes! Roll into smaller balls for individual servings or party trays. Coat them the same way.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, the cheese ball itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetables.

Can I freeze the cheese ball?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheese may become grainy once thawed.

How long will it stay fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I add dried fruit?

Yes—try mixing in chopped dried cranberries, apricots, or dates for a sweet and savory twist.

Conclusion

The Classic Cheese Ball is a timeless appetizer that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, planning a game day spread, or just craving a nostalgic snack, this creamy, savory favorite is always a winner. With endless flavor possibilities and quick prep, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Classic Cheese Ball

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A Classic Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory appetizer made with a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, herbs, and seasonings, then rolled in crunchy nuts or herbs. Perfect for parties and holidays, it pairs beautifully with crackers, veggies, or pretzels.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 cheese ball (serves 8–10)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No Bake
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for coating)
• Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce, chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
2. Fold in chopped green onions or chives.
3. Shape mixture into a ball using clean hands or wrap in plastic wrap and mold into a ball shape. Chill for at least 1 hour until firm.
4. Place chopped nuts (and parsley, if using) on a plate. Roll chilled cheese ball in the mixture until evenly coated.
5. Transfer to a serving plate. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or cut vegetables.

Notes

• Make up to 2 days in advance. Wait to coat with nuts/herbs until right before serving.
• For a nut-free option, use crushed crackers, seeds, or everything bagel seasoning as the coating.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for easiest mixing.
• Try mixing in crumbled bacon, chopped dried cranberries, or different cheeses for variation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg