This Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory, and slightly nutty appetizer that’s perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to impress your guests. Loaded with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and crunchy pecans, it pairs beautifully with crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted baguette slices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just mix, shape, and chill!
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at any event, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the flavors to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for stress-free hosting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded triple cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup bacon bits
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup sliced scallions
• 2 tbsp milk (any type)
• 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Crushed black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Mix the Cheese Ball Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, scallions, milk, everything bagel seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

1. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spoon.
2. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 3: Coat with Pecans

1. Spread the chopped pecans on a plate.
2. Roll the chilled cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to ensure the pecans stick evenly to the surface.

Step 4: Serve

1. Place the cheese ball on a serving platter.
2. Serve with crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted baguette slices.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: Mix in fresh parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of freshness.
• Switch the Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios instead of pecans.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or minced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Coat with pecans just before serving for the freshest taste.

2. What can I serve with the cheese ball?

Crackers, veggie sticks, toasted baguette slices, pretzels, or pita chips pair wonderfully with this cheese ball.

3. How do I soften cream cheese quickly?

Place the cream cheese (still wrapped) in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes, or microwave it in 10-second intervals until soft.

4. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts and blends better, enhancing the texture and flavor.

5. Can I omit the nuts?

Absolutely! Roll the cheese ball in more bacon bits, chopped herbs, or crushed crackers instead.

6. What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning?

Substitute with a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, dried garlic, and salt.

7. How long can it sit out at a party?

The cheese ball can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.

8. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon works as a lighter alternative while maintaining the smoky flavor.

9. What if the mixture is too soft to shape?

Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping into a ball.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients to make a larger cheese ball or two smaller ones.

Conclusion

The Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress at your next gathering. With its irresistible blend of flavors and crunchy pecan coating, this cheese ball is easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Make it ahead of time, serve it with your favorite dippers, and watch it disappear in no time!

Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 1hour
• Total Time: 1hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Delight your guests with this Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball! Packed with cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, scallions, and rolled in crunchy pecans, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded triple cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup bacon bits
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup sliced scallions
• 2 tbsp milk (any type)
• 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Crushed black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Mix the Cheese Ball Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, bacon bits, scallions, milk, and spices (everything bagel seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
2. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

2. Shape and Chill

1. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the cheese mixture into a ball.
2. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

3. Coat the Cheese Ball

1. Spread the chopped pecans on a plate.
2. Roll the chilled cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to ensure the nuts adhere evenly to the surface.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Place the cheese ball on a serving platter.
2. Serve with crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted baguette slices.

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Notes

• For extra flavor, use smoked bacon bits or freshly cooked, crumbled bacon.
• The cheese ball can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld.