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old fashioned recipe - A classic old fashioned cheese ball rolled in chopped pecans, served on a wooden board with crackers and celery sticks.

Classic Old Fashioned Cheese Ball

This is the ultimate old fashioned recipe for a perfectly creamy, savory, and irresistibly delicious cheese ball. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a hint of spice, then rolled in crunchy pecans, it’s a timeless appetizer perfect for any gathering or holiday celebration. Easy to make ahead!

  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 2+ hours chilling)
  • Yield: 1 large cheese ball (approx. 8-10 servings) 1x

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (white and light green parts)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (like Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot, optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups pecans or walnuts, finely chopped, for coating

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 3: Once the mixture is smooth, use your hands to shape it into a ball or a log.
Step 4: On a plate or shallow dish, spread out the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Gently roll the cheese ball in the nuts, pressing them lightly to ensure they adhere to the entire surface.
Step 5: Tightly wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
Step 6: Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to slightly soften, making it easier to spread. Serve with an assortment of crackers, pretzels, pita chips, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese is fully softened. Freshly shredding your cheddar cheese makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor. This cheese ball can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Toasting the pecans before chopping them adds an extra layer of nutty flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers & Snacks
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp (approx 45g)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: old fashioned recipe, cheese ball, classic cheese ball, appetizer, party food, creamy cheese ball, make ahead appetizer, holiday appetizer, savory snack, pecan cheese ball

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