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Classic Cheese Ball Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

This Classic Cheese Ball is a creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings and parties. Made with softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, fresh chives, and a blend of spices, it is coated in crunchy chopped pecans for added texture. Ready in just 10 minutes, it serves 24 and pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Mixture

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh diced chives
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Coating

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, diced chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, and salt into the cream cheese. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  3. Form the Ball: Scoop the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly and roll it around with your hands to shape the mixture into a compact ball.
  4. Prepare Pecans: Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a plate, ready to coat the cheese ball.
  5. Coat Cheese Ball: Remove the plastic wrap and roll the cheese ball across the chopped pecans until it is fully covered. Use your fingers to press additional pecans onto any spots that are not fully coated.
  6. Chill: Wrap the pecan-covered cheese ball in a clean piece of plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up.

Notes

  • For best results, soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth texture.
  • The cheese ball can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, allowing flavors to deepen.
  • Serve with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a perfect party appetizer.
  • You can swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and flavor.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy taste or mild cheddar for a subtler flavor.