If there’s one dish that brings people together at a Southern gathering, it’s a classic Cheese Ball. Creamy, flavorful and topped with crunchy pecans and walnuts, this Cheese Ball is a must-have for every occasion, from casual family get-togethers to holiday parties. I grew up watching my grandmother make this every year for Thanksgiving, and it’s been a family tradition ever since.
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There’s just something about the combination of sharp cheddar cheese, smooth cream cheese and the crunch of nuts that screams comfort. This Cheese Ball recipe is simple, delicious and packed with Southern charm.
A Southern food classic
Southern food has always been more than just a meal — it’s a memory. I remember walking into my grandmother’s kitchen on Thanksgiving morning, the smell of cheese, onion and Worcestershire sauce filling the air. She’d be at the counter, mixing her famous Cheese Ball, a recipe passed down through generations. We would gather around her, sneaking bites of cheese as she pressed the crunchy nuts onto the outside.
Moments like these are what makes Southern cooking so special — it’s a tradition, a comfort and a way of connecting with loved ones. This Cheese Ball takes me back to those moments, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Ingredients
How to make a Cheese Ball
Making this Cheese Ball is a fun process but not easy. Start by chopping the pecans and walnuts and setting them aside. Next, grab a bowl and mix the softened cream cheese and freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese together. Once smooth, add in the green onions, hot pepper sauce, garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano and black pepper for that perfect blend of flavors.
After everything is well combined, it’s time to shape it into a ball. Use your hands to mold the cheese mixture into a round ball. Then, roll it in the chopped nuts, pressing them in so the entire surface is coated evenly. This adds a satisfying crunch and a layer of nuts to every bite.
Once the Cheese Ball is covered in nuts, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to chill for about an hour. This will give it time to firm up and set. When you’re ready to serve, take it out about 15 minutes beforehand to let it soften. It’s perfect with crackers, veggies or anything else you like to dip into cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser at any Southern gathering!
Serving suggestions
The beauty of a Cheese Ball is its versatility. You can serve it with your favorite crackers, slices of toasted bruschetta or even fresh vegetables for a lighter option. It pairs well with a tray of Southern appetizers, like pimento cheese sandwiches or deviled eggs.
Consider including a big sweet tea or lemonade pitcher for a true Southern spread. And if you’re looking to add a little spice to the table, sprinkle extra hot sauce on the side!
Storage tips
Leftovers? Not a problem! Wrap your Cheese Ball tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and it will last up to five days in the refrigerator. To maintain that creamy texture, let it soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving again. This way, the cheese will be just as spreadable and delicious as when it was first made.
Southern farewell
There’s something heartwarming about sharing a dish that’s been a part of your family traditions for years. I hope this Cheese Ball recipe brings a little Southern charm to your table, whether you’re preparing it for a special event or just because.
Simple, easy and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household just like it is in mine. So, gather your loved ones, serve this classic and let the good times roll. Happy cooking, y’all!
Cheese Ball
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Serving plate or platter
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup walnuts roughly chopped
- ⅓ cup pecans roughly chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper ground
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Place your chopped pecans and walnuts on a plate and set them aside.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add the grated sharp Cheddar cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, chopped green onions, hot pepper sauce, garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano and black pepper to the cream cheese. Mix everything until well combined.
- Using a rubber spatula, scrape the cheese mixture from the sides of the bowl. With greased hands, shape the cheese mixture into a large ball.
- While holding the cheese ball in one hand, scoop the chopped pecans and walnuts with the other hand and press them gently into the ball. Ensure the nuts cover the entire surface.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour to firm up.
- Before serving, remove the cheese ball from the fridge 15-20 minutes early to let it soften slightly. Serve with crackers, vegetables or bread, and enjoy your Southern delight!
