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A close-up view of a homemade cheese ball showing the creamy texture of the cream cheese and cheddar mixture before it's chilled.

Cheese Ball Recipe (The Only One You'll Ever Need)

This classic cheese ball recipe is the ultimate easy party appetizer. Made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and toasted pecans, it's a savory, crowd-pleasing favorite that can be made ahead of time for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature, block-style
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 3 green onions finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup pecans toasted and finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Electric Mixer or Spatula
  • 1 Plastic Wrap

Method
 

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, finely chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  2. Scrape the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and form it into a ball.
  3. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  4. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the chopped toasted pecans until evenly coated.
  5. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

Make-Ahead: The cheese ball can be made up to 3 days in advance without the nut coating. Keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge and roll in nuts just before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.