Get ready to be the star of every gathering with this irresistible Cheddar Bacon Cheese Ball that combines creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in one spectacular bite! Imagine a crowd-pleasing appetizer that takes just 10 minutes to prepare and will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a holiday gathering, or just craving a delicious snack, this cheese ball is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that will have guests coming back for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
- Add Worcestershire sauce to the mixture and mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed.
- Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean work surface and transfer the cheese mixture onto the center of the wrap.
- Using the plastic wrap, carefully shape the mixture into a compact ball, ensuring all ingredients are tightly packed together.
- If using nuts, spread the chopped nuts on a separate plate or cutting board.
- Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the chopped nuts, pressing lightly to help the nuts adhere to the surface. If not using nuts, skip this step.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in fresh plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
- Before serving, remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes to slightly soften and allow easier spreading.
- Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature to ensure smooth, easy mixing.
- Use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor impact.
- Cook bacon until crisp to get the best texture and most intense bacon flavor.
- For a gourmet touch, try using a mix of nuts like pecans and almonds for coating.
- Prepare the cheese ball a day in advance to allow flavors to develop fully.
- Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best spreading consistency.
- Experiment with different herb and spice additions like chopped fresh dill or a pinch of smoked paprika for unique flavor variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
