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Classic Holiday Cheese Ball

A perfect sphere of a Holiday cheese ball coated entirely in finely chopped pecans or walnuts.

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Make this simple, savory, and creamy cheese ball appetizer. It is a retro party favorite, perfect for holiday gatherings, and you can prepare it ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup dried beef, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
  2. Stir in the chopped dried beef, scallions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Shape the cheese mixture into a uniform ball.
  4. Spread the finely chopped pecans on a plate or shallow dish.
  5. Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans until it is completely coated.
  6. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
  8. Before serving, place the cheese ball on a serving platter and surround it with crackers and vegetable sticks.

Notes

  • For a festive look, substitute half of the pecans with finely chopped fresh parsley.
  • If you skip the dried beef, add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
  • You can make this a day ahead of your party for easy serving.

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