Can I make this cheese ball recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead. In fact, making it a day in advance lets the flavors blend even more. Just shape, roll in pecans, and keep it wrapped in the fridge.

What can I use instead of pecans for coating?

Feel free to substitute with walnuts, sliced almonds, crushed crackers, or even crispy bacon bits for a fun twist.

Can I make this cheese ball without nuts?

Of course. If you or your guests have nut allergies, roll the cheese ball in chopped herbs, toasted breadcrumbs, or even everything bagel seasoning for great flavor and crunch.

How long will the cheese ball last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your cheese ball will stay fresh for up to 7 days, making it an ideal make-ahead party appetizer.

Cheese Ball Recipe

Description

This classic Cheese Ball Recipe features a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, green onions, and a touch of garlic, rolled in crunchy pecan pieces. Perfect for serving at parties, holidays, or as an indulgent appetizer, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead for convenience.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Cream Cheese Base

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup fresh green onions, minced or finely diced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Cheese

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

Coating

1 cup pecan pieces

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Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, green onions, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Add the Cheddar Cheese: Grate the block of sharp cheddar cheese fresh. Add the grated cheese to the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the cheese mixture for about 1 hour, or until it starts to firm up and becomes easier to shape.
Shape the Cheese Ball: Using a spatula and hands lightly greased with olive oil spray, remove the mixture from the bowl and form it into a ball shape.
Coat with Pecans: Roll the shaped cheese ball in the pecan pieces until it is evenly coated on all sides. Press lightly to help the nuts adhere.
Serve: Place the completed cheese ball on a serving plate. Serve with your favorite crackers and enjoy!

Notes

For the best flavor, always use freshly grated cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties.
Pecans can be substituted with walnuts or omitted for nut-free diets.
The cheese ball can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, until ready to serve.
Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/16 of cheese ball (about 40g)
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg