Classic Cheddar Cheese Ball Recipe

Cheese snobs may turn their noses up to it, but there's really no appetizer more classic or crowd-pleasing than a cheddar cheese ball. You know what we're talking about — that cream cheese ball that's jazzed up with shredded cheddar, seasoning, some chives, and then rolled up in sliced almonds for some crunch. It's the perfect centerpiece for a cheese and charcuterie board, as it happens to pair well with both meat and crackers. It also stands well on its own, making for a simple but delicious cheesy appetizer that really can't be beat. 

Recipe developer Christina Musgrave has crafted this classic cheddar cheese ball recipe, and she's especially a fan of how easy it is to make. "I love that this cheese ball only has a few ingredients, and it's really easy to make," she explains. "Plus, it's delicious." The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese is an irresistible one, and both cheeses are mild enough, that they're almost guaranteed to sit well with the whole crowd. Sure, blue cheese and goat cheese have their place in this world, but the funky flavors are sure to unsettle at least few tastebuds. This cheese ball, however, will have nothing but a pleasing effect on even the pickiest of the picky eaters.

Gather the ingredients for this classic cheddar cheese ball

It wouldn't be a cheddar cheese ball without cheddar cheese, so you'll need some of the shredded variety, along with cream cheese, which will make up the bulk of the ball. That said, Musgrave does note that you can get creative with the type of shredded cheese you opt for. "You can definitely use different shredded cheese like Monterey jack or colby jack," she says, though she does acknowledge that the cheddar "adds extra tangy flavor to the cheese ball."

Aside from the cheese, you'll also need garlic and onion powder, diced chives, and sliced almonds for the outside of the ball. "You can also use different seasonings to change up the flavor," Musgrave notes.

Use a food processor to mix up the ingredients

If you've ever tried breaking down a block of cream cheese with a fork, then you know that it's not the easiest task in the world. Luckily, this recipe calls for using a food processor, which takes any complication out of the process. So, into a food processor, add the block of softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and chives. Pulse until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. 

Use plastic wrap to form the cheese ball

Transfer the cheesy ingredients onto a layer of plastic wrap, then use the wrap to shape the cheese into a ball. Place the wrapped cheese ball into the fridge, and let it chill for at least 1 hour, though you can make this ahead of time, and let it set for up to 24 hours. By chilling the cheese, you're ensuring that it will retain that ball shape when you serve it. 

Roll the cheese ball in sliced almonds

What good is a cheese ball without an almond-covered exterior? Well, it's still pretty good, but the sliced almonds add a nice, subtly-crunchy texture to an otherwise very soft dish. So, once your cheese ball is adequately chilled, remove it from the plastic wrap, and roll it in the sliced almonds. Be sure that the entire surface of the ball is covered in the almonds. 

Serve this classic cheddar cheese ball

All that's left to do is serve this cheese ball, and naturally, it pairs quite well with crackers, but don't limit yourself to just that. "Veggies like celery, carrots, and peppers are great for dipping," Musgrave suggests. "Pretzels would also be great too."

If you're looking for the right occasion to serve this cheese ball, allow Musgrave to provide some inspiration. "This is great for entertaining — for a group of friends, dinner party or even holiday," she says. But, there's also nothing stopping you from making it as an after-school or movie night snack. 

Classic Cheddar Cheese Ball Recipe
5 from 20 ratings
Move over artisanal cheese and charcuterie board - this classic cheeseball recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time
1.08
hours
Cook Time
0
minutes
Servings
10
Servings
cheese ball with crackers
Total time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Ingredients
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons diced chives
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
Directions
  1. Mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and chives in a food processor until combined.
  2. Place the cheese mixture on plastic wrap, and use the wrap to form a ball. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
  3. Remove the plastic wrap, and roll the cheese ball in sliced almonds. Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
Calories per Serving 151
Total Fat 13.9 g
Saturated Fat 6.7 g
Trans Fat 0.1 g
Cholesterol 36.5 mg
Total Carbohydrates 2.3 g
Dietary Fiber 0.6 g
Total Sugars 1.0 g
Sodium 155.8 mg
Protein 5.1 g
The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
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