What is it that everyone adores, has a delectably creamy texture, and is bursting with rich and cheesy flavor? A cheese ball!

Aside from the holidays, who doesn’t enjoy eating cheese balls at any time of year? This creamy, delightful, and cheesy snack is ideal for any occasion and goes with practically any style of party or dinner.

So, want to learn how to make a cheese ball? Continue reading to discover the cheese ball’s secrets, and start preparing your new favorite appetizer right away – unless it’s already your favorite!

Reasons for Making Cheese Balls 

The main motivation for preparing cheese balls is undeniably their mouthwatering flavor. In addition to that, who doesn’t enjoy a simple party snack that almost serves itself? 

One of the oldest and most traditional holiday treats, cheese balls can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator. When your guests arrive, set them out with some crackers and enjoy! 

The simplicity of cooking this appetizer is another reason to prepare it. You won’t want to purchase another pre-made cheese ball from the supermarket after making this! If you want to have a big dinner party, it’s also a more affordable alternative to the cheese board.

Also, these come in a variety of flavors! Feel free to use your preferred herbs, vegetables, and other ingredients. Because of this, you’ll never get tired of their taste!

How to Make a Cheese Ball – Main Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make one of the most delicious cheese balls:

• 8 ounces of cream cheese 
• 8 ounces of finely grated cheese (any kind you like – see below for more information)
• 1 to 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 small shallot
• 1/4 small sweet onion
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 – 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 – 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Optional Extras 

• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/2 – 2 teaspoons hot sauce 
• 1 – 2 tablespoons minced parsley leaves
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme
• 1 – 2 teaspoons of spices, such as paprika
• 2 tablespoons minced dried fruit
• A little ground black pepper

For the Coating

• 3/4 cup chopped roasted nuts, crackers, or pretzels
• Crushed chips or cereal
• Cooked crunchy bacon or prosciutto for extra flavor

For Serving 

• Vegetables, such as bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or green onions
• Thick crackers or pita chips
• Grapes or dried figs 
• Sour cream
• Cheese cubes

Instructions for Making Cheese Balls 

The procedure for making cheese balls is simple. However, in order to make them successfully, you must follow these instructions. Let’s begin! 

Step 1 – Process the Cream Cheese 

First of all, you’ll have to make a fluffy and light texture. In order to achieve that, place the cheese in a food processor or in a bowl. If you decide to go with the second option, beat the cheese until you see the desired texture. 

Step 2 – Add the Second Cheese 

Add the grated cheese and blend or beat until completely combined and smooth – it shouldn’t take more than a minute.

Step 3 – Add Remaining Ingredients and Liquids 

It’s time to add the lemon juice, onion, garlic, shallot, and Worcestershire sauce! The procedure is the same as in the previous steps: process or beat the cheese mixture until you get a smooth texture, free of lumps and bits.

Step 4 – Add Any Optional Ingredients 

It’s time to add any other ingredients of your liking! Add them and beat until the mixture is smooth.

Step 5 – Adjust the Texture 

If the mixture is becoming runny, like mayonnaise or salad dressing, add 1 tablespoon of room-temperature butter at a time and process or beat until well absorbed. You can thicken the mixture in this way.

Step 6 – Scoop the Mixture 

On a work area, spread out a large piece of plastic wrap – ideally around 16 inches in length. Transfer the mixture to the middle of the wrap using an ice cream scoop or a spoon.

Step 7 – Make a Shape 

It’s time to make a ball out of the mixture! Firstly, cover the mixture with the plastic wrap by lifting up its two opposite edges. After, press the mixture firmly against the wrap with your hands. 

Cover the cheese round’s whole surface by raising the remaining pieces of plastic one at a time. Lastly, make a ball out of it.

Step 8 – Wrap With Foil and Put in the Fridge

Next, wrap the ball in aluminum foil and reshape it with your hands. After, put it in the fridge for at least 6 hours. 

Step 9 – It’s Coating Time 

Spread an even layer of the coating into a roasting pan or baking dish. Then take the cheese ball out of the fridge, completely unwrap it, and top it with the coating. Carefully roll to coat, or pour the coating onto the surface.

Step 10 – Serve It 

It’s time to serve the cheese ball! This part is entirely up to you, so serve however you see fit. Remember to check out the ingredient table above for more serving suggestions! Keep any leftover cheese balls in airtight containers if you have any.

Some Additional Tips for Making Cheese Balls

It goes without saying that you won’t regret making the aforementioned recipe – it’s so delicious that everyone who tries it will be speechless! However, here are some additional tips for making it, including which type of cheese is best, some extra tips for topping the cheese balls, and troubleshooting cheese balls.

Which Type of Cheese Is the Best 

In terms of the creamy aspect, cream cheese is the traditional starting point and it works fantastically. However, since cheese is one of the primary ingredients in this snack, make an effort to buy some higher-quality cheese. This is a great option for the base cheese. 

With the base set in place, you can go crazy with the secondary cheese. You can choose anything you like except cotija and Parmesan – they won’t blend in very nicely! 

Topping Your Cheese Balls 

A great cheese ball is a texture experiment. However, the difference between the crunchy toppings and the soft, creamy interior is what you want to achieve! 

The perfect toppings include crispy bacon, chips, and roasted nuts. Keep in mind that all toppings should be minced finely so they may be readily integrated into the spreading cheese.

Troubleshooting Cheese Balls 

Don’t worry if you accidentally created a texture that you dislike – the texture of a cheeseball is very easy to fix! 

As previously stated, if your mixture is too runny, try adding 1 spoon of unsalted butter and mixing thoroughly. Add more if it’s still runny.

Also, don’t worry if you added too many ingredients! Add 3 tablespoons of cream cheese and 1 teaspoon of butter at a time, combine thoroughly, and then taste. This will help you in keeping the base flavors.

Final Thoughts 

Thank you for sticking with us all the way through! We hope we showed you the best way to make one of the perfect party appetizers!

So, are you wondering how to make a cheese ball? Simply choose your favorite cheese, buy the remaining ingredients, follow the instructions, and don’t forget to add some love!

You shouldn’t be hesitant to prepare some egg patties if you want to add something additional to the table for your guests! Bon Appétit!

Visit cookroomkitchen.com for further culinary tips, recipes, and guidelines.