This easy cheese ball recipe is a classic party snack! It’s a great make-ahead option for when you’re hosting and your guests will love the creamy, tangy flavor!

This cheese ball appetizer is a classic appetizer made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and herbs, rolled into a ball shape and then coated with chopped pecans. or a combination of different types of cheese. I served it with crackers but it can also be served with vegetables, such as celery or carrot sticks, or with fruit, such as apple or pear slices.

I love this appetizer because it can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve, making it a convenient and easy option for entertaining! My mom used to make this around the holidays, and it was always a hit! I’m excited to share the recipe with you!

Ingredients and Substitutions

Cream cheese- You can use regular or low fat cream cheese. I recommend letting it sit out for at least a couple of hours so it’s easier to mix. Do not microwave it, or it can become too soft.
Cheese- I used extra sharp shredded cheese but you can use a mild cheddar if you prefer.
Green onions- Also called scallions, these add a mild onion flavor.
Worcestershire sauce- Keep in mind that traditional Worcestershire contains fish. I used Annie’s brand which a vegetarian friendly Worcestershire sauce.
Garlic powder- I prefer garlic powder instead of fresh garlic because it’s not as sharp as raw garlic.
Onion powder- This enhances the onion flavor without being too pungent.
Dill- I love the flavor of dill, which almost gives this a bit of a ranch seasoning flavor.
Pecans- I used raw pecans but roasted pecans are fine too. Do not use candied pecans. These could also be substituted for walnuts.

How to Make a Cheese Ball

How to Store a Cheese Ball

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap, making sure that it is completely covered and there are no air pockets. Store the cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is best to store the cheese ball separately from the crackers. When you’re ready to serve, allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before unwrapping and serving. If you don’t plan to serve the cheese ball the same day you make it wait to roll it in the pecans until the day you’re serving it. This will prevent the nuts from getting soft.

What to Serve with a Cheese Ball

Crackers – Choose a variety of crackers such as plain, wheat, or flavored crackers to serve with your cheese ball.
Vegetables – Serve with fresh vegetables such as celery, carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. This can be great for a low carb option!
Fruits – Serve with fresh fruit such as apple slices, pear slices, or grapes.
Pretzels – Pretzels make a great salty accompaniment to a cheese ball.
Bread – Sliced baguette or toasted bread are great options for spreading or dipping with a cheese ball.