Cheese Ball
Cheese Ball makes a shareable appetizer with creamy, savory flavor and a satisfying bite.
About This Recipe
Cheese Ball is made for sharing, so the filling and texture should be easy to scoop or bite.
Keep the seasoning bold enough to stand out in small portions.
Ingredients
- ✓16 ounces cream cheese (, softened)
- ✓2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese ((avoid pre-shredded cheese))
- ✓2 green onions (, chopped)
- ✓1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ✓1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- ✓1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ✓1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- ✓1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- ✓dash freshly ground black pepper
- ✓2/3 cup pecans (, finely chopped)
Ingredient Notes
- Cream Cheese: Use fresh ounces cream cheese and prepare it as directed before cooking.
- Freshly Grated Sharp: Use fresh cups freshly grated sharp and prepare it as directed before cooking.
- Green Onions: Use fresh green onions and prepare it as directed before cooking.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Use fresh teaspoon worcestershire sauce and prepare it as directed before cooking.
Instructions
- 1
Mix cheeseball ingredients: Place cream cheese in a mixing bowl then mix until smooth. Add cheese, green onion, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, parsley, garlic powder, oregano. and pepper then mix well to combine.
- 2
Form into ball: Use a rubber spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and gather the mixture into one lump. Lightly grease your hands and form the mixture into a round ball.
- 3
Coat with nuts: Place the pecans on a plate. Hold the cheese ball in one hand and use the other hand to scoop the pecans onto the outside of the ball, pressing them in gently and turning the ball to coat all sides.
- 4
Chill and serve: Cover the cheeseball in cling wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow it to firm up. Remove from fridge about 20 minutes before serving to allow it to soften just slightly. Serve with crackers, pretzels, vegetables or anything else you'd love to dip in cheese!
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Prepare ingredients before cooking.
- Taste and season in small adjustments.
- Keep heat moderate unless a step calls for high heat.
- Serve while the best texture is still fresh.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add fresh herbs before serving.
- Spicy version: Add chili or hot sauce.
- Lighter option: Serve with salad or vegetables.
- Make ahead: Prepare components early and finish fresh.
What to Serve With Cheese Ball
Serve Cheese Ball with crisp vegetables, crackers, toasted bread, or a simple dipping sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for best quality.
Reheat gently, adding a small splash of liquid if the dish seems dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the method: Give each step enough time to work.
- Poor heat control: Adjust heat before food scorches or dries out.
- Under-seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving.
- Storage mistakes: Cool and store leftovers promptly.
FAQ
Can I make Cheese Ball ahead?
Yes, prepare components ahead and finish close to serving.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes. Taste and adjust gradually.
How should I store leftovers?
Use an airtight container and refrigerate when needed.
Can I double it?
Yes, but use a larger pan or cook in batches if needed.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 124 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 29 mg
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Sodium: 129 mg
- Sugar: 1 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g