Thanksgiving Cheese Ball

Why Make This Recipe

Thanksgiving Cheese Ball is a delightful addition to your holiday spread. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, which helps reduce stress on the big day. This fun appetizer combines creamy cheeses and fresh herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, it’s great for dipping with crackers, bread, or veggies, making it versatile for everyone’s tastes.

How to Make Thanksgiving Cheese Ball

Ingredients:

• 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
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Form the cheese mixture into a ball and place it on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap the ball tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the chopped pecans or walnuts. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with crackers, sliced bread, and fresh vegetables.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Cheese Ball

Serve the Thanksgiving Cheese Ball with a variety of dippers. Crackers, sliced baguettes, and fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery make excellent choices. You can also include some cheese knives so guests can scoop and spread as they like. It’s not only delicious but also looks stunning on your table.

How to Store Thanksgiving Cheese Ball

You can store the Thanksgiving Cheese Ball in the refrigerator. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its shape and freshness. It will stay good for about a week. If you want to make it even ahead of time, you can prepare the cheese mixture and shape it into a ball, then freeze it. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips to Make Thanksgiving Cheese Ball

1. Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
2. You can add different herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
3. For a festive touch, consider rolling the cheese ball in additional herbs or spices, or even using a blend of different nuts.

Variation

If you’re looking for a twist, try adding some diced jalapeños for spice or dried cranberries for a sweet tang. These additions can change the flavor profile while still keeping it delicious.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of nuts?
If you want to avoid nuts, you can roll the cheese ball in fresh herbs or seeds, like sunflower seeds, for added texture.

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or cream cheese with herbs for a different taste.