Why You’ll Love Classic Cheese Ball Recipe Recipe

Ready in about 20 minutes and can be chilled ahead of time, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.
A rich, creamy texture from cream cheese and cheddar, balanced with flavorful pimento cheese and chives.
The pecan coating adds a satisfying crunch and elegant finish.
Versatile: serve with chips, crackers, veggies or fruit slices — perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 jar pimento cheese
12 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon parsley
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ cup diced chives
1 ¼ cups pecans, chopped

Directions

Place the pimento cheese and the softened cream cheese into a mixing bowl and beat until smooth.
Add the grated cheddar cheese, diced chives, dried thyme, parsley, and garlic powder. Stir until fully combined.
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Using the wrap, shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap tightly (you may also wrap in foil for extra firmness) and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or up to 24 hours if preparing ahead) until firm.
When ready to serve, roll the chilled ball in the chopped pecans until fully coated.
Return the cheese ball to the refrigerator until serving time. Serve with crackers, chips, baguette slices, and/or veggies.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 (approximately)
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1–2 hours (or up to 24 hours ahead)
Total time: approximately 20 minutes active + chilling

Variations

Bacon & green onion: Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon and increase chives for extra flavor.
Spicy version: Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
Sweet & savory: Use pecans with a hint of maple or cinnamon‑sugar coating for a slightly sweet twist.
Herbed coating: Swap pecans for a mix of chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and dill) or chopped roasted nuts for variety.
Mini cheese balls: Form smaller individual balls (for example 2‑inch diameter) and roll each in pecans — great for grab‑and‑go appetizers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cheese ball well wrapped (plastic wrap and foil) in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: If desired, you can freeze the cheese ball (before coating in pecans) in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before coating and serving.
Reheating: This is served cold or room‑temperature. Remove from the fridge about 10–15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly for easier scooping.

FAQs

What is a cheese ball?

A cheese ball is a mixture of cream cheese and other cheeses whipped or stirred together, often with additional mix‑ins (like pimento cheese, green onions, bacon), shaped into a round form, chilled to firm up, and typically rolled in nuts or herbs.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes — you can shape the ball and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours ahead of serving. Just wait to roll in the pecans until you’re ready to serve for best texture.

What can I serve with the cheese ball?

Great options include crackers (e.g., wheat or bran varieties), baguette slices, pita chips, pretzels, vegetable sticks (such as carrots or celery), or even fruit slices like apples or pears for a savory‑sweet combo.

Can I substitute the pimento cheese?

Yes. If you can’t find a jar of pimento cheese spread, you can substitute an equal amount of another cheese spread or finely chopped pimentos blended into plain cream cheese.

Can I use different nuts to roll the cheese ball?

Absolutely. While pecans are used here, you can use chopped walnuts, almonds, cashews, or even roasted sunflower seeds for a nut‑free alternative (if allergy‑friendly, you could roll in chopped herbs or crushed crackers).

Is this recipe gluten‑free or can it be made gluten‑free?

The cheese ball mixture itself is gluten‑free (just the cheeses and seasonings). To serve gluten‑free, pair it with gluten‑free crackers, gluten‑free chips, or veggie sticks instead of standard crackers.

How firm should the cheese ball be before rolling in nuts?

It should be chilled until firm enough to hold its shape — about 1–2 hours in the fridge is sufficient. If you chill it longer (up to 24 hours), it may be easier to roll and slice cleanly.

Can I change the size of the cheese ball?

Yes — you can scale the recipe up or down depending on your guest count. For a smaller gathering, halve all ingredients; for a larger crowd, double them and consider forming two separate balls.

How do I store leftovers after serving?

Wrap the remaining cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then store in the refrigerator. It’s best if consumed within 3‑4 days for best flavor and texture.

Will the texture change overnight?

Yes — as it chills overnight, the flavors meld and it becomes firmer, which can make it easier to slice. However, if it becomes too firm, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Conclusion

This Classic Cheese Ball is a go‑to appetizer that blends ease with flavor. With minimal prep time and the ability to make ahead, it checks the boxes for convenience and taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a tasty snack, this recipe delivers a crowd‑pleasing result with creamy cheese, vibrant chives, and a crunchy nutty exterior. Serve with your favorite crackers or veggies, and enjoy!