Description
This Thanksgiving Cheese Ball is a delicious and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, then rolled in crunchy pecans or walnuts, it offers a creamy, savory flavor with a delightful nutty texture. Easy to prepare ahead and serve with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Coating
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Mix the cheeses and seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Parmesan, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended into a smooth mixture.
- Form and chill the cheese ball: Shape the cheese mixture into a firm ball. Place it onto a piece of plastic wrap, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
- Prepare the nut coating: In a shallow bowl, place the chopped pecans or walnuts. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it carefully.
- Coat the cheese ball with nuts: Roll the cheese ball gently in the chopped nuts, pressing lightly so the nuts adhere well to the surface, creating a crunchy exterior.
- Serve: Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter. Serve with an assortment of crackers, sliced bread, and fresh vegetables for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly chopped herbs and freshly grated cheeses.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or other nuts of your choice.
- Prepare the cheese ball a day in advance to allow flavors to deepen.
- Keep the cheese ball refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain firmness and safety.
- For a spicy kick, increase cayenne pepper slightly according to taste.
