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The Best Easy Classic Cheese Ball Recipe with Bacon and Pecans

A close-up of a perfectly formed cheese ball recipe coated entirely in chopped pecans and seasonings, resting on a white plate.
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Make this classic cheese ball for your next party or holiday gathering. It uses simple ingredients, comes together fast, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can prepare this appetizer ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans, plus 1/2 cup for coating
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onion tops

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Beat them together with a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  2. Add the crumbled bacon, 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. If using, stir in the chives or green onion tops now.
  3. Place the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a ball.
  4. In a small, shallow dish, spread out the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
  5. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans until the entire surface is evenly coated.
  6. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
  7. Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • You can substitute the pecans with chopped walnuts or a mix of dried herbs for a different coating flavor.
  • This is an excellent make-ahead appetizer; it tastes even better the next day.
  • For game day snacks, serve alongside sturdy pretzel chips or celery sticks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenican.com/cheese-ball-recipe/