There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a classic cheese ball. It’s the kind of appetizer that brings people together—whether it’s for holiday gatherings, game nights, or casual get-togethers.
Creamy, tangy, and packed with sharp cheddar, green onions, and just the right kick of spice, this cheese ball is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Rolled in crunchy pecans, every bite delivers a mix of smooth and crunchy textures that keep you coming back for more.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Just mix, shape, and chill—no baking or complicated steps required. Serve it up with crisp Apple Slices for a sweet contrast or a refreshing Cucumber Salad to balance out the richness.
Whether you’re prepping for a party or just looking for a fun snack, this cheese ball is a simple yet impressive choice.
What’s so Special About This Dish?
- Easy to make – mix, roll, and chill—simple as that!
- Perfect for any occasion – from holiday parties to casual snacking.
- Great texture – creamy cheese meets crunchy pecans for the best bite.
- Customizable – swap the cheddar for another cheese or add your favorite herbs.
- Pairs well with sweet and savory sides – try it with apple slices or fresh cucumbers!
Classic Cheese Ball Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or spatula
- Rubber spatula
- Plastic wrap
- Plate
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese avoid pre-shredded cheese
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- dash freshly ground black pepper
- 2/3 cup pecans finely chopped
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add flavors: Mix in cheddar, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper.
- Shape the cheese ball: Use a rubber spatula to gather the mixture into a ball.
- Coat with pecans: Place chopped pecans on a plate and roll the cheese ball in them, pressing gently to coat all sides.
- Chill: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve: Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving. Enjoy with crackers, pretzels, or veggies!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 124kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 29g |
| Sodium | 129mg |
Tips for the Perfect Cheese Ball!
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that make it less creamy. Grate your own cheddar for the best texture and flavor.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese – Let it soften for about 30 minutes before mixing. This makes blending easier and results in a smoother, more spreadable cheese ball.
- Customize the Coating – While pecans add a classic crunch, you can swap them for:
- Crushed walnuts or almonds
- Crispy bacon bits
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Crushed pretzels for a salty kick
- Make It Ahead – The flavors develop even better overnight in the fridge. If making in advance, roll in pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Spice It Up – Like it Bolder? Add extra hot sauce, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne.
- Serving Tip – Let the cheese ball sit at room temp for 20 minutes before serving. This softens it up, making it easier to spread.
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
