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a cheese ball on a plate surrounded by crackers.
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5 from 1 vote

Cheese Ball

This Cheese Ball recipe is delightfully simple and oh-so-satisfying. It combines creamy cream cheese with sharp cheddar, crisp green onions, and sweet red bell peppers, all jazzed up with a touch of Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. Rolled in crunchy pecans for texture and chilled until firm, it's a classic appetizer that's perfect for spreading on crackers or slices of baguette.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Chill Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 20 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
Calories: 346kcal
Author: Joanna Cismaru

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces cream cheese 2 packages, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 green onions finely chopped
  • ¼ cup red bell pepper finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup pecans chopped
  • fresh parsley finely chopped, for garnish

For serving

  • assorted crackers
  • sliced baguette
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese until smooth.
  • Mix in the green onions and red bell pepper until well combined.
  • Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Once combined, shape the mixture into a ball. You can use plastic wrap to help mold it.
  • Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans or walnuts, ensuring it's fully coated.
  • Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  • When ready to serve, place the cheese ball on a serving dish, sprinkle with some finely chopped fresh parsley (if using), and surround with assorted crackers or sliced baguette.

Notes

  1. Cream Cheese Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth texture.
  2. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist. Aged cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese can add interesting flavors.
  3. Nut Options: Pecans are great, but walnuts or almonds also work well. For a nut-free version, try rolling the cheese ball in chopped herbs or crushed crackers.
  4. Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for preparing ahead of time. Just wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
  5. Serving Suggestions: Offer a variety of dippers like assorted crackers, sliced baguettes, or even vegetable sticks.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 346kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 71mg | Sodium: 291mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1087IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 168mg | Iron: 1mg