Name: Garlic Herb Cheese Ball with Crackers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons lemon juice (optional); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives; 2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional); Crackers (buttery, wheat, or multigrain); Fresh vegetables (celery, cucumber, or bell pepper slices)

Description

A creamy, flavorful, and elegant appetizer perfect for holidays, parties, or casual gatherings. This Garlic Herb Cheese Ball combines smooth cream cheese, sharp cheddar, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic, creating a rich and savory dip that pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh vegetables. Easy to make ahead and guaranteed to impress any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons lemon juice (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt, or to taste

For Coating:

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Serving:

Crackers (buttery, wheat, or multigrain)
Fresh vegetables (celery, cucumber, or bell pepper slices)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, chives, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball using your hands. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up.
Before serving, mix the coating ingredients (parsley, chives, and nuts if using) on a plate.
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it gently in the coating until evenly covered.
Transfer to a serving platter and serve with crackers and fresh vegetables.

Notes

For a nut-free version, roll the cheese ball in herbs only.
To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheddar.
The cheese ball can be made up to 3 days in advance; add the coating just before serving.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze the uncoated cheese mixture for up to 1 month.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes