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The Ultimate Easy Make-Ahead Classic Cheese Ball Recipe

A perfectly formed cheese ball recipe coated entirely in chopped toasted pecans, sitting on a marble surface.
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Prepare this simple, classic cheese ball ahead of time for an impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, 1/4 cup chopped pecans, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If using, mix in the crumbled bacon.
  2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula.
  4. Place the remaining 1 cup of pecans on a shallow plate. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans until it is completely coated.
  5. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days, before serving.
  7. When ready to serve, place the cheese ball on a serving platter and surround it with crackers, bread slices, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

  • You can make this cheese ball up to three days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
  • For a different flavor, substitute the pecans with chopped fresh parsley or dried cranberries mixed with walnuts.
  • If the cheese ball softens too much while sitting out, return it to the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up before continuing to serve.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/cheese-ball-recipe-classic-appetizer/