cheese ball recipe
This cheese ball recipe is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for parties. Make it days in advance for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 16 oz 2 blocks cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp or medium
- 2 tbsp chopped green onion for mild onion flavor
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp hot sauce optional, for a little kick
- 1 cup chopped pecans for coating
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and hot sauce (if using).
- Blend well: Use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to mix until the texture is creamy and the mixture is fully combined.
- Shape the ball: Using clean hands, shape the mixture into a ball.
- Wrap tightly: Place the ball on a sheet of plastic wrap, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Coat in pecans: Spread chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll the cheese ball in the pecans until fully coated.
- Serve: Place on a serving plate with crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies.
Notes
- Don’t skip chilling: The cheese ball needs time to firm up or it will lose shape when serving.
- Chop pecans finely: Large pieces won’t stick as well to the cheese surface.
- Wrap it well: Air exposure can dry out the cheese—wrap tightly in plastic wrap until ready to serve.
- Taste before chilling: Adjust salt, pepper, or spice level while it’s still soft and easy to mix.
- Serve at room temp: Let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving so it spreads easily.