Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheese ball delivers everything you love about bruschetta—fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic flavor—wrapped into a creamy, crowd-pleasing dip. It’s easy to make ahead, looks beautiful on a platter, and is packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday, potluck, or summer party, this appetizer is sure to stand out.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Crostini, crackers, or baguette slices, for serving
Directions
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently and let marinate in the fridge.
- When ready to serve, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate.
- Spoon the tomato bruschetta mixture over the top of the cheese ball or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or more basil if desired.
- Serve with crostini, crackers, or sliced baguette.
Servings and timing
Serves 8–10 as an appetizer
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Sun-dried tomato version: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Caprese twist: Mix in diced fresh mozzarella and drizzle with extra balsamic glaze.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- Nut coating: Roll the cheese ball in crushed toasted nuts for added texture.
- Mini cheese balls: Make smaller, individual balls for a fun, grab-and-go option.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tomato topping separate if storing to maintain texture. This dip is meant to be served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.
FAQs
Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Add the tomato topping just before serving.
How do I keep the cheese ball from being too soft?
Make sure to chill it for at least an hour. If needed, chill longer to firm it up before serving.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but you can use dried in a pinch—use about one-third the amount.
What kind of tomatoes are best for the topping?
Roma or cherry tomatoes work well because they’re firm and have less moisture.
Can I use other cheeses in the mix?
Yes, goat cheese, feta, or even shredded sharp cheddar can be added for a different flavor profile.
How do I serve this cheese ball?
Serve with toasted baguette slices, crostini, crackers, or even fresh vegetables.
Can I shape the cheese ball into something fun?
Absolutely! You can shape it into a log, wreath, or even a heart for themed occasions.
Will the tomato topping make the cheese ball soggy?
If spooned on right before serving, it won’t. Keep it separate until the last minute for best texture.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change once thawed.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, the cheese ball itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free dippers if needed.
Conclusion
Bruschetta Cheese Ball is a stunning and delicious appetizer that blends creamy cheese with the vibrant flavors of fresh bruschetta. It’s easy to make, perfect for entertaining, and sure to become a new favorite at your next event. Whether served with crostini or crackers, it’s a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic party dip.
PrintBruschetta Cheese Ball
Bruschetta Cheese Ball combines the creamy richness of a classic cheese ball with the vibrant flavors of tomato bruschetta. Made with mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic, and fresh basil, it’s topped with marinated tomatoes for an elegant and delicious appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crostini, crackers, or baguette slices, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- When ready to serve, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate.
- Spoon the tomato mixture over the cheese ball or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or more basil if desired.
- Serve with crostini, crackers, or baguette slices.
Notes
- Chill the cheese ball longer for a firmer texture.
- Add the tomato topping just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Customize with sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, or a nut coating.
- Make into mini cheese balls for individual servings.
- Use fresh basil for best flavor, but dried can work in a pinch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
