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The Best Classic Cheese Ball Recipe

A perfectly formed cheese ball recipe coated entirely in chopped pecans, resting on a white plate.

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Make this easy cheese ball appetizer for your next party or gathering. It is a creamy, savory, and simple no-bake snack that always disappears fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans, plus more for coating
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully blended.
  2. Add the chopped pecans (the 1/2 cup portion), green onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the cheese mixture. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Place the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a ball.
  4. Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. This step helps it hold its shape.
  5. Spread the extra chopped pecans onto a shallow plate.
  6. Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll it gently in the chopped pecans until the entire surface is coated.
  7. Return the finished cheese ball to the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
  8. Serve your classic cheese ball appetizer with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • You can prepare this make-ahead appetizer up to 2 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
  • For a bacon cheese ball recipe variation, add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture before chilling.
  • This recipe is a great game day dip idea because it requires no baking.

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