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Classic Cheese Ball

Classic Cheese Ball
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This Classic Cheese Ball recipe is a creamy, cheesy appetizer that combines smooth cream cheese with sharp cheddar, green onions, and a blend of herbs and spices. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser ideal for parties, gatherings, or casual snacking. Customize it with various coatings and add-ins to suit any palate, and serve it chilled alongside crackers, vegetables, or sliced breads.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball Base

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Coating Options

  • 1/2 cup crushed nuts (pecans, walnuts, or your choice) or herbs (fresh dill, parsley, or thyme)
  • Alternative coatings: crushed pretzels, crumbled crackers, chopped crispy bacon bits, or finely chopped vegetables

Optional Variations

  • 1–2 diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for spice
  • 1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until it becomes soft and easy to mix. This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.
  2. Mix in Cheddar and Flavorings: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with shredded sharp cheddar, chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using a sturdy spoon or electric mixer until fully blended.
  3. Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a tight ball. Place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up and hold its shape.
  4. Coat with Nuts or Herbs: After chilling, roll the cheese ball in your chosen coating such as crushed nuts, fresh herbs, crumbled crackers, or bacon bits to add texture and visual appeal.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for easy serving.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and richness; low-fat versions may alter the mouthfeel.
  • Shred cheddar cheese finely to ensure a smooth blend without lumps.
  • Do not skip chilling time; it makes shaping easier and enhances flavor development.
  • Experiment with coatings like toasted pecans, chopped chives, or smoked paprika for variety.
  • Keep the cheese ball chilled until just before serving to maintain the ideal texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: classic cheese ball, cheese ball recipe, appetizer, party snack, cheese appetizer, crowd pleaser, easy cheese ball, gluten free appetizer

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/classic-cheese-ball/