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The Best Classic Cheese Ball Recipe: Easy Make-Ahead Party Snack

A beautiful, round cheese ball recipe coated entirely in chopped pecans, sitting on a white plate.

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Make this classic cheese ball recipe for your next gathering. It is a simple, make-ahead party snack featuring cheddar and cream cheese, coated in pecans. This crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for holidays or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans (for coating)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until completely smooth and well combined.
  2. Place the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a ball.
  3. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days. Chilling helps the ball firm up for easier coating.
  4. When ready to serve, spread the chopped pecans on a plate or shallow dish.
  5. Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll it gently in the chopped pecans until the entire surface is coated.
  6. Place the finished cheese ball on a serving platter. Serve immediately with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • You can prepare this appetizer up to two days ahead of time. Keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator until you are ready to coat and serve it.
  • For a different flavor, substitute the pecans with chopped bacon bits, dried parsley, or a mix of everything bagel seasoning.
  • If you want a ranch cheese ball recipe variation, add 1 tablespoon of dry ranch seasoning mix to the cheese mixture in step 1.

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