Easy Cheese Ball Recipe

Cheese balls are the perfect party appetizer. They can serve a crowd, you can make them ahead of time, and the flavor combinations are endless. Start with this easy cheese ball recipe and then add your own twist on it!

Of all the things to serve at a party, a cheese ball is my absolute favorite classic appetizer. For many reasons:

• Easy to make
• Can be made ahead
• Endless flavor possibilities
• Make it sweet or savory
• Serve on charcuterie boards or by itself

There are so many variations you can try, it will make your head spin. Or your stomach rumble… I hope with this basic recipe you start combining your own flavor combos!

My favorite cheese balls are my Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball, Honey Mustard Cheese Ball, Dried Beef Cheese Ball , and my Hedgehog Cheese Ball.

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See recipe card for complete information on ingredients and their quantities.

Ingredient Notes

• Cream cheese – Use regular, low fat, or fat free cream cheese. Bring it to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Shredded cheese – I start with cheddar and then add mozzarella or Monterey Jack because they are pretty neutral in flavor. When I make one, I love to use something spicy like Pepper Jack!
• Toppings – Use finely chopped nuts, fresh herbs, or extra cheese to add texture and make the outside look pretty.

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How To Make A Cheese Ball

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

What is the best cheese to use?

• Mozzarella
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Swiss
• Blue cheese
• Parmesan
• Gorgonzola
• Gouda
• Monterey Jack
• Gruyere
• Pepper Jack
• Goat Cheese

The coating is the presentation or outfit that your ball is wearing. Most are rolled in nuts, herbs, or a combo of the two, but don’t forget the sweet cheese balls. There are so many fun candies that you can use too!

Topping Options

• Toasted nuts (chopped pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews, macadamia)
• Toasted seeds (poppy, chia, sesame, sunflower)
• BACON!!! (Bacon Bits are ok but I prefer real bacon chopped small)
• Fresh parsley and other herbs (chives, green onions, cilantro, dill, thyme, rosemary)
• Misc items like pickled mustard seeds, dried beef, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cereal.

How long does it last?

Without the coatings and just the basic ingredients, a cheese ball will last two weeks, in an airtight container stored in the fridge. Wrap it in plastic wrap or waxed paper for best results.

Can you freeze it?

If tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, you can freeze it for up to 1 month.

How long can it sit out?

Because of the dairy in it, I wouldn’t let your cheese ball sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

If your party or gathering is going to be longer, I would make two smaller cheese balls and change them out half way through the party.

Serving Suggestions

I prefer buttery crackers or shredded wheat crackers with mine. Even seed crackers are great! I love the contrast of textures they provide to the creamy texture of the soft cheese.

You can also use tortilla chips and baguette slices. Be sure they are sturdy! And if you serve it with a knife, you can add in some sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrot sticks.

Holiday Appetizers

I don’t consider it a Christmas party if there isn’t a homemade cheeseball like this cranberry pecan cheese ball, some spinach artichoke dip, or some everything bagel dip.

Tapas Tips & Tricks

• Bring the blocks of cream cheese to room temperature for better mixing.
• Shred your own cheese from a block for a creamier texture.
• A great spice mix is an easy way to add flavor. Ranch seasoning is a classic flavor or get wild with everything bagel seasoning.
• Warm up the outside of your cheese ball mixture in your hands so the toppings stick easier when coating.
• If topping with crunchy items like pretzel, wait until last minute so they don’t get soggy.
• Place your cheese ball on a small piece of parchment paper when serving for easier clean up.
• Make mini cheese ball bites instead of one large on like my pepper jelly cheese balls!

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This classic cheese ball recipe is the perfect appetizer for your next party or gathering. Serve with buttery crackers, celery sticks, pita chips. Serve it with your favorite crackers, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is perfect for whatever ingredients are hiding in your fridge.

{Originally published 02/13/19 – photos and recipe notes updated 08/26/24}

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