Best 4 The Ultimate Cheese Ball Recipes

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In the realm of party appetizers, few treats are as universally beloved as the cheese ball. With its creamy, savory filling and crispy, crunchy coating, this classic dish is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday gatherings. Whether you prefer a classic cheddar cheese ball, a spicy pepper jack version, or something more adventurous like a blue cheese or goat cheese ball, there's a recipe out there to suit every taste. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let's embark on a culinary journey to discover the ultimate cheese ball recipe, one that will leave your guests clamoring for more.

Let's cook with our recipes!

THE ULTIMATE BACON RANCH CHEESE BALL



The Ultimate Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball image

The ultimate cheese ball recipe made with creamy ranch flavored cream cheese, and plenty of bacon, cheese, and other tasty add-ins.

Provided by The Chunky Chef

Categories     Appetizer

Time 15m

Number Of Ingredients 13

16 oz cream cheese (, room temperature)
3 Tbsp sour cream ((optional but recommended))
1 oz package ranch seasoning
3/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried minced onion
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/4 cups cheddar cheese (, finely grated (divided))
1/2 cup pepper jack cheese (, finely grated (divided))
8 slices bacon (, cooked and crumbled (divided))
1/3 cup chopped green onions ((divided))
2/3 cup chopped pecans
1 tsp poppy seeds

Steps:

  • To a large mixing bowl, add cream cheese, sour cream (if using), ranch seasoning, garlic powder, minced onion, salt and pepper. Stir until well combined with a rubber spatula.
  • Add 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, all of the pepper jack cheese, half of the bacon, and half the green onions. Stir until mixed.
  • Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap and drop cream cheese mixture onto it. Cover tightly on all sides, and shape into a ball shape. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight, until firm.
  • Add remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, remaining bacon and green onions to a small mixing bowl. Add in poppy seeds and refrigerate alongside the cheese ball.
  • Before rolling the cheese ball, add pecans and stir well.
  • Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and spread out the outer coating in an even layer.
  • Remove plastic wrap and roll cheese ball in coating, making sure all sides are coated. You may have to pick up some of the coating and press it so it sticks.
  • Serve immediately, or cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 234 kcal, Carbohydrate 3 g, Protein 6 g, Fat 21 g, SaturatedFat 10 g, Cholesterol 52 mg, Sodium 409 mg, Sugar 1 g, ServingSize 1 serving

ULTIMATE CHEESE PLATTER



Ultimate Cheese Platter image

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories     appetizer

Time 10m

Yield 16 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Fresh fig, lemon, or Galax leaves (see Cook's Note)
1 large bunch seedless green grapes
1 (12-ounce) wedge truffled pecorino
1 (1-pound) wedge Stilton blue cheese
1 (12-ounce) piece Brie
1 (8-ounce) piece herbed goat cheese, such as Fleur Verte
Fresh strawberries
Dried apricots
Fig jam
Crackers
1 dried fig ball, halved (optional)

Steps:

  • Arrange the fig leaves in a single layer on a 16- to 18-inch diameter round board or platter.
  • Place the grapes in the center of the board. Arrange the cheeses on the board around the grapes, cut sides facing out.
  • Nestle the strawberries between two of the cheeses to create a block of color. Nestle the apricots between two of the cheeses, also creating a block of color. Transfer the fig jam to a bowl and place it on the board. Arrange the crackers on the board around the cheeses. If using, place the fig ball on the board, cut sides up.

ULTIMATE CHEESE BALL



Ultimate Cheese Ball image

This cheese ball has been a requested favorite of family and friends for more than 30 years. If I ever bring a different appetizer to a party, people are disappointed! -Sue Franklin, Wentzville, Missouri

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Appetizers

Time 20m

Yield 2 cups.

Number Of Ingredients 16

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup sharp shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons real bacon bits
2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans
1 tablespoon diced pimientos
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
Dash each salt and pepper
TOPPING:
3 tablespoons real bacon bits
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans
1-1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Assorted crackers

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the Swiss and cheddar cheeses, onion, bacon, pecans, pimientos, relish, salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour., In a small shallow bowl, combine the bacon, parsley, pecans and poppy seeds. Shape cheese mixture into a ball; roll in bacon mixture. Wrap in plastic; refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve with crackers.

Nutrition Facts :

ULTIMATE CHEESE BALL



Ultimate Cheese Ball image

This easy cheese ball is good for any occasion. The mixture may be formed into any shape (e.g., a log, a snowman). Serve with buttery, round crackers.

Provided by LAW0470

Categories     Cold Cheese Dips

Time 2h10m

Yield 48

Number Of Ingredients 4

3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 bunch green onions, finely chopped
1 (8 ounce) jar dried beef, chopped
1 cup chopped pecans

Steps:

  • In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, green onions and dried beef. Form the mixture into a ball. Sprinkle with pecans. Chill in the refrigerator approximately 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 74.6 calories, Carbohydrate 1.2 g, Cholesterol 19.1 mg, Fat 6.8 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 2.8 g, SaturatedFat 3.3 g, Sodium 172.4 mg, Sugar 0.4 g

Tips:

  • Use a variety of cheeses. This will give your cheese ball a more complex flavor and texture. Try using a combination of hard and soft cheeses, as well as cheeses with different flavors, such as cheddar, cream cheese, and blue cheese.
  • Shred the cheese finely. This will help the cheese ball to hold together better. You can also use a food processor to shred the cheese.
  • Chill the cheese ball before serving. This will help it to firm up and hold its shape better. You can chill the cheese ball for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
  • Serve the cheese ball with a variety of crackers, vegetables, and fruit. This will give your guests a variety of options to choose from. You can also serve the cheese ball with a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or honey mustard.

Conclusion:

Cheese balls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. They are also a great way to use up leftover cheese. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can make a cheese ball that is sure to impress your guests. So next time you are looking for an easy and delicious appetizer, try making a cheese ball.

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