Cheese Balls: A Delightful Treat for Everyone
Creamy, tangy cheese balls rolled in crunchy nuts or herbs – the perfect make-ahead party appetizer. These versatile bites can be customized with your favorite cheeses and coatings for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 2 large cheese balls (12+ servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill)
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- Optional Mix-ins: Crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Combine Cheeses: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in cheddar, Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Shape: Divide mixture into 2 portions. Roll each into a ball, then wrap in plastic. Chill 2+ hours.
- Coat: Roll chilled balls in chopped nuts or additional herbs.
- Serve: Let stand at room temp 20 mins before serving with crackers or veggie sticks.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Keeps refrigerated for 1 week or frozen for 2 months
- Presentation: Serve on a board with honey, jam, and charcuterie
- Mini Version: Form into 1-inch balls for bite-sized appetizers
- Dietary: Use vegan cream cheese and nut-based Parmesan for dairy-free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
