Easy Cheddar Cheese Ball: A Classic Appetizer
- By Valerie Denton
- Updated September 12, 2024
Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite go-to appetizer: the Easy Cheddar Cheese Ball. Seriously, it’s a game-changer for any gathering or snack time. Picture this: a creamy, tangy blend of cheddar cheese, whipped up with a hint of Worcestershire sauce, and rolled in a crunchy coating of chopped nuts. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite!
Inspired by my mother’s cheeseball recipe, I love how ridiculously simple it is to make. I’ve served this cheese ball at countless gatherings, from casual game nights to fancy dinner parties, and it’s always a hit. Plus, you can totally customize it to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Or keep it simple with just a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Trust me, once you try this Easy Cheddar Cheese Ball, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s creamy, crunchy, and downright addictive. You can even make it vegetarian with buying a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. So next time you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for seconds, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Easy Cheddar Cheese Ball
SERVINGS
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Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 lb sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 teaspoons sweet onion (fresh grated)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoons lemon juice (fresh)
- 1 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons roasted red peppers (diced)
- 2 tablespoons parsley (fresh chopped)
Coating
- 2 tablespoons parsley (fresh chopped)
- 2/3 cup pecans (chopped)
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Instructions
MAKE CHEESEBALL.
- Beat Together the first 9 Ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine 16 oz cream cheese, 1/2 lb sharp cheddar cheese, 2 teaspoons sweet onion, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce, 1 teaspoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoons dry mustard, 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika, 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt, and 1/4 teaspoons salt.
- Add Parsley, and Pimentos. Add the 2 tablespoons parsley and 2 tablespoons roasted red peppers into the cheese mixture. Pulse until everything is evenly distributed.
- Chill and Form into Ball. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until it firms up. Then, shape it into either one large ball or two smaller balls. NOTE: This is freezer friendly and can be frozen at this point or after it is coated.
TOPPING FOR CHEESEBALL.
- Make the Coating. In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons parsley and 2/3 cup pecans.
- Roll Cheese Ball. Evenly roll the chilled cheese ball(s) in the prepared coating mixture.
- Refrigerate. Once coated, wrap in fresh wrap or place in an airtight container then return the cheese ball(s) to the refrigerator. Chill until ready to serve. Enjoy!
Notes
- Be sure to check out our FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) section, where we answer all your burning questions to help you navigate the recipe with ease and confidence!
- Don’t miss our HOW MUCH TO MAKE section, where we help you perfectly portion your recipes for any gathering, big or small—ensuring everyone leaves your table satisfied and happy!
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Nutrition
TABLE OF CONTENTS (select below to jump to a section)
ENRICH THE RECIPE
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheddar cheese, such as aged cheddar or smoked cheddar, for a more intense flavor profile.
Pimentos: Roasted red peppers can be used in place of pimentos for a sweeter and smokier taste.
A GUIDED JOURNEY OF HOW TO MAKE
STEP 1: Beat Together the First Nine (9) Ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together the cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
Once the cheeses are well combined, add the grated onion, Worcestershire Sauce, lemon juice, dry mustard, paprika, seasoned salt, salt, to the bowl. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth, with no lumps remaining.
STEP 2: Add Parsley, and Pimentos.
Add the parsley and pimentos into the cheese mixture and pulse until everything is evenly distributed.
By ensuring that the parsley, and pimentos are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, it will guarantee a balanced flavor in the finished cheese ball.
STEP 3: Chill and Form into Ball.
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle. Chilling the mixture will make it easier to shape into balls and will also help the flavors to meld together.
STEP 4: Prepare Coating.
In a shallow dish or plate, combine the finely chopped fresh parsley, paprika, and finely chopped pecans. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed and well combined.
Once chilled, remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator and use your hands to shape it into either one large ball or two – three smaller balls, depending on your preference.
Having a coating ready before rolling the cheese balls ensures a smoother and quicker process.
STEP 5: Roll Cheese Ball.
Remove the chilled cheese ball(s) from the refrigerator and roll them in the prepared coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure that the coating adheres well to the surface of the cheese ball(s).
Rolling the cheese ball in the coating mixture adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste and appearance of the finished product.
STEP 6: Refrigerate.
Place the coated cheese ball(s) on a serving plate or tray and cover them loosely with plastic wrap. Return the cheese ball(s) to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until they are thoroughly chilled and the flavors have had time to develop.
Chilling the cheese ball(s) before serving allows the flavors to intensify and meld together, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive final product.
Serve and Enjoy.
Once the cheese ball(s) are fully chilled, remove them from the refrigerator and serve them with your favorite crackers, breadsticks, or vegetable sticks.
Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness of this easy cheddar cheese ball with friends and family, and watch it disappear within minutes!
DETERMINING THE RIGHT QUANTITY: HOW MUCH TO MAKE
The amount of Easy Cheddar Cheese Ball mixture you’ll need to make depends on the number of guests you’re serving and whether it’s the main appetizer or one of several options. Here’s a general guideline:
For a Small Gathering (12 people): You can make a single batch of the cheese ball mixture.
For a Larger Gathering: Consider doubling the recipe to ensure there’s enough for everyone. You can adjust the ingredients accordingly.
It’s always a good idea to gauge the preferences of your guests and estimate how much they might eat. If you’re serving multiple appetizers, you might not need as much cheese ball mixture compared to if it’s the main appetizer. Additionally, consider the size of the other dishes you’re serving alongside the cheese ball. Adjust the quantities based on these factors to ensure you have enough to go around without excessive leftovers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
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Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball mixture ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. You can also shape the mixture into a ball and coat it with the nuts ahead of time. Just make sure to refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
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How long can I store the cheese ball in the refrigerator?
The cheese ball can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods.
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Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes. You can freeze the cheese mixture. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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What are some serving suggestions for the cheese ball?
The cheese ball pairs well with a variety of dippers such as crackers, breadsticks, pretzels, fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers), and sliced baguette. You can also serve it alongside cured meats and olives for a charcuterie-style presentation.
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What can I use if I don’t have pimentos?
If you don’t have pimentos, you can substitute them with finely chopped roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar flavor and color.
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Can I use mild cheddar cheese in this recipe?
Yes.
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I love the flavor of this cheese ball!