Print

Classic Cheese Ball

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

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.

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

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