This cheese ball blends the richness of cream cheese and sharp cheddar with the savory notes of green onions and Worcestershire sauce. Rolled in toasted pecans, it offers a delightful crunch in every bite.
PrintClassic Cheese Ball with a Twist
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15 minutes + chill time
- Yield: approx. 3" ball - 8 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until well blended.
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Add the chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
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Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
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Spread the toasted pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the pecans until fully coated.
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Serve with an assortment of crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Crafting a cheese ball that reflects your personal taste is a delightful way to impress guests and make the appetizer truly your own. Here are some creative variations and pairing suggestions to inspire your signature cheese ball:
Flavor Variations to Personalize Your Cheese Ball
1. Sweet & Savory Delight:
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of honey.
- Coating: Finely chopped toasted pecans mixed with a touch of cinnamon.
- Pairings: Serve with apple slices, graham crackers, or cinnamon-sugar pita chips.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Popper:
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, diced jalapeños, cooked and crumbled bacon, and a dash of garlic powder.
- Coating: Crushed tortilla chips or additional bacon bits.
- Pairings: Accompany with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or mini bell pepper halves.
3. Mediterranean Medley:
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, crumbled feta, chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano.
- Coating: Chopped fresh parsley and crushed pita chips.
- Pairings: Offer with pita wedges, cucumber slices, or cherry tomatoes.
4. Smoky Bacon & Cheddar:
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Coating: Chopped chives and additional bacon bits.
- Pairings: Serve with rye crackers, pretzel rods, or sliced baguette.
5. Herb & Garlic Infusion:
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, and parsley.
- Coating: Mixed fresh herbs and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Pairings: Pair with garlic breadsticks, crostini, or roasted vegetables.
6. Dried Beef Cheese Ball:
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, dried beef, finely chopped, chopped green onions, garlic & onion powder and a splash of Worcestershire sauce
- Coating: Half chopped dried beef and green onions
- Pairings: Multigrain crackers and veggie sticks
🍷 Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements herb-infused cheese balls.
- Red Wine: A fruity Pinot Noir pairs well with smoky or spicy variations.
- Beer: A hoppy IPA balances the richness of bacon and cheddar combinations.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a splash of citrus or a robust iced tea can refresh the palate between bites.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a cheese ball that showcases your culinary flair. Comment on how you put your signature on this recipe. Its great to share and learn! 💙
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 176
- Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 6