Easy Classic Cheeseball (Great Party App!)
This Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is the ultimate appetizer—savory, creamy, and bursting with flavor in every bite! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in no time and perfect for pairing with crackers, veggies, or even toasted bread.
Looking for a quick and easy appetizer that’s guaranteed to wow your guests? This Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is the perfect choice! With its creamy, cheesy base, smoky bacon, crunchy pecans, and a kick of everything bagel seasoning, it’s a flavor-packed treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a party, a game day gathering, or just need a snack for the family, this cheeseball is always a hit!
Need more party apps and snacks? Be sure to try this easy cream cheese corn dip, smoked salmon dip, the best crockpot spinach artichoke dip, or my 5 minute whipped feta dip.
Ingredients Needed
- Cream Cheese: The creamy foundation that holds everything together—soften it for easy mixing.
- Shredded Triple Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharp, cheesy flavor and a gooey texture.
- Bacon Bits: Smoky and salty, they add a delicious crunch throughout.
- Chopped Pecans: Provide a nutty crunch and rich flavor—toast them for extra depth!
- Sliced Scallions: Bring a fresh, mild onion flavor to the cheeseball.
- Milk: Loosens the mixture slightly for smoother blending—use any milk you prefer.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: A mix of savory spices that takes the flavor to the next level.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning balance.
How to Make the Easiest Cheese Ball
Add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, everything bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper to a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer to combine until smooth and creamy.
Stir in half of the bacon bits, scallions, and pecans, ensuring they’re chopped into smaller pieces for even distribution.
Place a piece of plastic wrap on the counter and scoop the cheese mixture onto it. Wrap it tightly and shape it into a ball.
Refrigerate the wrapped cheeseball for 15–20 minutes to firm up. In a shallow bowl, combine the remaining chopped pecans, bacon bits, and scallions.
Remove the cheeseball from the fridge, unwrap it, and roll it in the pecan-bacon-scallion mixture until fully coated.
Serve immediately with crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted bread slices.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the cheeseball sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap Cheddar: Use your favorite shredded cheese, like Gouda or Pepper Jack, for a different flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with crushed pretzels or sunflower seeds.
- Add Heat: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Herb It Up: Add fresh parsley, dill, or chives for an extra herbaceous flavor.
Tips for Making
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to make it easier to combine.
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- For extra crunch, use freshly cooked bacon crumbles instead of prepackaged bacon bits.
Common FAQs
Yes! Prepare and wrap the cheeseball, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Roll it in the coating just before serving.
You can substitute with a mix of sesame seeds, dried onion, dried garlic, and poppy seeds for a similar flavor.
Lightly spray the plastic wrap with nonstick spray before adding the cheese mixture.
What to Serve with Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
This cheeseball pairs perfectly with:
Pretzels: Add a salty crunch to every cheesy bite!
Crackers: Sturdy options like Ritz or water crackers work well for scooping.
Fresh Veggies: Try carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
Toasted Bread Slices: Crostini or baguette slices are great for a heartier bite.
Easy Classic Cheese Ball Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese mild, medium, or sharp
- ½ cup bacon bits
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup sliced scallions
- 2 tbsp milk of your choice
- 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, everything bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in half of the bacon bits, scallions, and pecans, making sure they’re finely chopped.
- Place the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, wrap it tightly, and shape it into a ball.
- Chill the wrapped cheeseball in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Mix the remaining bacon bits, scallions, and pecans in a shallow bowl.
- Unwrap the cheeseball and roll it in the mixture until fully coated.
- Serve immediately with crackers, veggies, or toasted bread.
