Description
A classic, creamy, and tangy cheese ball combining softened cream cheese and sharp cheddar with fresh herbs and spices, perfectly coated in nuts for a crunchy texture. Ideal for parties and gatherings, this easy-to-make appetizer offers customizable flavors and an inviting presentation that pairs wonderfully with crackers, veggies, or bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating and Garnish
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with shredded sharp cheddar, chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until you get a smooth, spreadable blend with all ingredients evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the cheese mixture into a compact ball about the size of a softball. Press and smooth out the surface to ensure it holds together nicely.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Spread the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly on a flat plate. Roll the cheese ball gently in the nuts until it’s completely covered, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Chill and Set: Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the shape to firm up, improving taste and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the top for a bright pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve the cheese ball on a platter surrounded by crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly but avoid overworking the mixture.
- Finely chop nuts for better coating adherence and balanced crunch.
- Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to your taste before shaping.
- Chill long enough to firm the cheese ball for easy slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese ball
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg