This Herb and Garlic Cheese Ball is a fun, creamy treat that brings a burst of flavor! It’s made with cheese, herbs, and garlic, making it totally irresistible at any gathering.
Plopping this cheese ball on a plate with some crackers makes for an easy appetizer. Just watch it disappear—it’s a crowd favorite! I could snack on it all day! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat varieties work too, but they may be less creamy.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp white cheddar gives a nice kick. You can substitute it with mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, and dill are perfect for this cheese ball. If you don’t have fresh herbs, using dried herbs can work; just cut the quantities in half as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch, but you can swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even leave them out for a nut-free version. I personally love the taste of pecans—it really enhances the flavor!
How Do You Shape the Cheese Ball Easily?
Shaping the cheese ball can be a bit messy, but there’s a trick! Use plastic wrap to make it easier. Just lay some wrap on your hand, scoop the mixture onto it, then gather the wrap around the mixture and twist it to form a ball.
- Start with a clean, dry bowl for mixing.
- Once formed, you can roll it in chopped nuts or herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Chilling the cheese ball not only firms it up but also lets the flavors blend beautifully. This step is crucial for the best taste!
How to Make an Herb And Garlic Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Spices:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Coating and Serving:
- 1 cup chopped pecans (or mixed nuts)
- Fresh parsley sprigs (for garnish)
- Crackers (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Herb And Garlic Cheese Ball takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. Give it a bit of time to firm up and let those flavors mingle—it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cheese Mixture:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp white cheddar cheese in a medium bowl. Use a fork or hand mixer to combine them until they’re smooth and creamy. You want a nice texture here!
2. Add Flavor:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, finely chopped parsley, chives, dill, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. The fresh herbs will give the cheese ball its vibrant flavor; make sure you mix it well!
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
Now comes the fun part! Grab the cheese mixture and either use your hands or a piece of plastic wrap to shape it into a ball. If you’re using plastic wrap, lay some out and place the cheese mixture in the center, then pull the wrap around to form a ball.
4. Coat with Pecans:
Spread your chopped pecans (or mixed nuts) on a plate. Roll your cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently so they stick all around. This adds a lovely crunch to your cheese ball! Make sure the entire surface is coated.
5. Chill the Cheese Ball:
Wrap your cheese ball in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps it firm up and allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the cheese ball out of the fridge about 10 minutes beforehand so it can soften a bit. Place it on a serving board, garnish with fresh parsley sprigs for a pop of color, and serve it alongside your favorite crackers. Enjoy your snacking!
Now you have a lovely Herb and Garlic Cheese Ball that’s perfect for any gathering—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less creamy. Make sure it’s softened to mix easily with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can absolutely substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even a nut-free option by rolling the cheese ball in fresh herbs instead.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover cheese ball can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving again, so it softens slightly.
Can I Make This Cheese Ball in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just roll it in the nuts right before serving for the best texture and flavor!
