Introduction

Cheese balls are a classic party favorite that bring flavor and fun to any gathering. This recipe features four easy and delicious variations, each with its own unique blend of ingredients. Whether you prefer savory, herby, or slightly sweet, these cheese balls will impress your guests and keep the snacks coming!

Four round cheese balls are arranged in a square shape on a wooden board. The top left cheese ball is white with small bits of red and green mixed in, giving it a creamy, speckled look. The bottom left cheese ball is coated with finely chopped green herbs, making it look textured and fresh. The bottom right cheese ball is covered in shredded bright orange cheddar cheese. The top right cheese ball is covered with thin almond slices, showing a mix of cream and brown colors. Around the cheese balls, there are two types of white crackers: round crackers form a border around the top and right edges, while square crackers cover the left side and bottom curve of the board. The whole setup sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)

4 ounces dried beef (sliced into small squares)

2 green onion stalks (sliced)

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)

8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon onion powder

2 teaspoons chopped chives (for coating)

2 teaspoons chopped parsley (for coating)

1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (for coating)

1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (for coating)

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)

3 tablespoons sour cream

1 ounce ranch packet

8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (reserve 1 tablespoon for coating)

4 bacon slices (crumbled, reserve 1 tablespoon for coating)

8 ounces goat cheese

2 ounces prosciutto (sliced into small squares)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 teaspoon rosemary

1/2 cup sliced almonds (for coating)

Instructions

Step 1: Classic Dried Beef Cheese Ball – In a mixer, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 4 ounces dried beef (small squares), 2 sliced green onion stalks, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt. Place a layer of plastic wrap on a flat surface, spoon the mixture onto it, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. After chilling, shape the mixture into a ball.

Step 2: Garlic Chive Cheese Ball – In a bowl, mix 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 8 ounces shredded cheddar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. Remove from wrap, shape into a ball. In a separate bowl, combine 2 teaspoons chopped chives, 2 teaspoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs, and 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan. Roll the cheese ball in this coating evenly.

Step 3: Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball – Combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 3 tablespoons sour cream, 1 ounce ranch packet, and all but 1 tablespoon of 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese plus crumbled bacon from 4 slices (reserve 1 tablespoon bacon and cheddar for coating) in a mixing bowl. Blend well and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Uncover and coat the ball with the reserved cheddar and bacon pieces.

Step 4: Cranberry Prosciutto Cheese Ball – Mix 8 ounces goat cheese, 2 ounces diced prosciutto, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, and 1/2 teaspoon rosemary in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Remove and uncover. Place 1/2 cup sliced almonds in a bowl and roll the cheese ball in the almonds to coat evenly.

Tips & Variations

For easier shaping, let all cheese mixtures chill thoroughly before forming into balls to prevent stickiness.

Feel free to substitute dried beef with smoked salmon or cooked sausage for different flavors.

Try using pecans or walnuts instead of almonds for the cranberry prosciutto ball coating.

Serve cheese balls with assorted crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced baguette for a full party spread.

FAQs

Can I prepare these cheese balls ahead of time?

Yes, cheese balls actually improve in flavor when made a day ahead, as chilling allows the ingredients to meld together. Just keep them wrapped tightly and refrigerated until ready to serve.

How can I prevent the cheese balls from sticking to my hands?

Chilling the mixtures well before shaping helps reduce stickiness. You can also lightly wet or oil your hands to make rolling the cheese balls easier and cleaner.