This Herb and Garlic Cheese Ball is a fun and tasty appetizer! Made with creamy cheese and mixed with fresh herbs and garlic, it’s perfect for spreading on crackers.
It’s so easy to make that you can whip it up for any gathering. Just roll it into a ball, chill, and serve. Your guests will be asking for the recipe, I promise!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the cheese ball, giving it that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or even a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice flavor. If you can’t find it, feel free to swap it out for Monterey Jack or a mild aged cheese. You could also try a vegan cheese for a dairy-free cheese ball.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that strong flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder works in a pinch. Start small and adjust to taste!
Fresh Herbs: My go-to combination is parsley, dill, and chives, but feel free to mix in other herbs like basil or thyme if you prefer. Dried herbs can also be used, but use less since they are more concentrated.
Mixed Nuts: Chopped nuts add a crunchy coating. If you have nut allergies, consider rolling the cheese ball in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Cheese Ball?
Getting the cheese ball just right involves a few steps. Start with softened cream cheese to blend smoothly with the other ingredients. Mixing well is key—ensure no lumps remain!
- Mix all the cheeses with the spices first until smooth.
- Gradually fold in the herbs without over-mixing to keep the texture light.
- Chill the cheese ball for at least 2 hours. This helps it firm up nicely and lets the flavors develop.
Form the cheese ball using clean hands or plastic wrap to avoid stickiness. The chilling time is essential for a great bite. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Herb and Garlic Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chopped mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, pecans, walnuts)
- Crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 2 hours to chill in the fridge. After that, you’ll have a lovely appetizer ready to impress at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and minced garlic. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the delicious base of your cheese ball!
2. Add the Flavor:
Next, stir in the freshly chopped parsley, dill, chives, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The fresh herbs add a wonderful flavor to the cheese ball!
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
Now, you can shape your mixture into a ball. You can use your hands to roll it or place the mixture in the center of a piece of plastic wrap and use the wrap to form a ball. Make sure it’s tightly shaped.
4. Coat with Nuts:
On a plate, spread out the chopped mixed nuts. Roll your cheese ball in the nuts until it is fully coated. This adds a crunchy texture and a lovely look!
5. Chill:
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. This will firm it up and help the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve with Crackers:
Before serving, take the cheese ball out of the fridge. Unwrap it and place it on a serving platter surrounded by your favorite crackers. You can also garnish it with a bit more fresh parsley if you want!
7. Enjoy!
Cut into the cheese ball with some crackers and enjoy this creamy, flavorful herb and garlic delight with your friends and family. It’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful herb and garlic cheese ball as a perfect appetizer for gatherings!
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can easily prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This will give the flavors even more time to meld together!
What Should I Serve With the Cheese Ball?
This cheese ball is fantastic with a variety of crackers! You can also serve it with sliced baguette, vegetable sticks, or even pretzel crisps for a fun twist.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cheese ball can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it well wrapped to maintain freshness!
Can I Substitute the Nuts?
Yes, if you have nut allergies, you can substitute chopped seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Alternatively, you can roll the cheese ball in herbs or additional cheese for a nut-free option!
