Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor and comfort with our Garlic Cheese Ball Recipe. This appetizer is an irresistible combination of creamy cheese, aromatic garlic, and a crunchy coating that will become the star of any party or cozy night in.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees a delicious result every time. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy ball with a burst of garlic that dances on your palate — pure bliss!
This recipe perfectly balances the richness of cheese with the boldness of garlic, making it an ideal snack or appetizer for gatherings, holidays, or a simple indulgence. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or nuts.
Read on to discover why this recipe deserves a permanent place in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Our Garlic Cheese Ball Recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and crispy textures that everyone will adore. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be made ahead of time — perfect for busy hosts.
The bold garlic flavor infuses the cheese mixture, giving each bite a flavorful kick without overpowering the palate.
Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also highly adaptable. Whether you prefer a classic version or want to experiment with different cheeses and coatings, this recipe serves as a fantastic base.
Plus, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, veggies, or even as a sandwich filling, making it a versatile addition to your snack arsenal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed crackers or nuts (such as pecans or walnuts), for coating
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Serving plate or tray
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat until smooth and well blended.
- Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, green onions, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Shape the cheese ball: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into a ball roughly 3-4 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the coating: While the cheese ball chills, crush your choice of crackers or nuts finely. Spread them evenly on a plate or shallow dish.
- Coat the cheese ball: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll it gently but firmly in the crushed crackers or nuts, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well to the cheese.
- Chill before serving: Place the coated cheese ball back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to set.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the cheese ball to a serving plate. Serve with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.”
Feel free to experiment by swapping the cheddar for gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese to change the flavor profile. You can also add chopped cooked bacon or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and taste.
If you prefer a nutty coating, finely chopped pecans or walnuts work beautifully and add a pleasant crunch. For a lower-carb option, skip the crackers and roll the cheese ball in chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme.
To make the cheese ball vegan, substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based cheese alternatives, and make sure to use vegan Worcestershire sauce.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Protein | 7g |
Serving Suggestions
This garlic cheese ball pairs wonderfully with an assortment of crunchy crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette. Fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, and bell peppers also complement it perfectly, adding a refreshing crunch.
For a festive touch, surround the cheese ball with grapes, olives, or cherry tomatoes to create an inviting appetizer platter. You can also serve it alongside your favorite dips like hummus or spinach artichoke dip for variety.
Conclusion
The Garlic Cheese Ball is a timeless appetizer that combines simplicity with bold flavor. Its creamy texture and garlicky punch make it a favorite for parties and casual gatherings alike.
The ease of preparation, combined with its customizable options, means you can tailor it to suit any taste or occasion.
Whether you serve it with crackers, veggies, or as part of a larger spread, this cheese ball recipe will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious results that only a homemade garlic cheese ball can offer!
📖 Recipe Card: Garlic Cheese Ball
Description: A creamy and flavorful garlic cheese ball perfect for parties and appetizers. Easy to make and pairs well with crackers and veggies.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Add minced garlic, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape using your hands.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans and parsley until evenly coated.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition: Calories: 110 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 1g
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