This pecan bacon cheese ball recipe is the perfect appetizer for your next party. The cream cheese and cheddar cheese blend together perfectly, and the pecans add a delicious crunch. The bacon provides just the right amount of smoky flavor, and the green onions add a touch of sweetness. This cheese ball is sure to be a hit with your guests!

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Looking for a delicious appetizer recipe that will be sure to impress your guests? Look no further than this pecan bacon cheese ball recipe! This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and crunchy pecans. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time, so you can enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this pecan bacon cheese ball will be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pecan bacon cheese ball recipe is the perfect appetizer for your next party. The creamy cheese and smoky bacon are a perfect match, and the pecans add a delightful crunch. Here are four reasons I think you'll love this recipe:

• It's packed with flavor. The sharp cheddar cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pecans and the savory bacon.
• It's easy to make. Simply mix all of the ingredients together, form the mixture into a ball, and chill. No fuss, no muss.
• You can make this cheese ball ahead of time, so you can enjoy your party without stress.
• It's always a hit. Whether you're serving it at a casual get-together or a formal event, this cheese ball is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.

What You’ll Need To Make This Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe

Cream cheese: I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for this recipe. It will give the cheese ball a richer flavor and smoother texture.

Cheddar cheese: Be sure to use a good quality cheddar cheese for this recipe. It will provide the best flavor. I like to use a triple cheddar cheese blend, which is a combination of Vermont white cheddar, sharp cheddar and mild cheddar cheeses.

Bacon: I recommend using cooked bacon for this recipe. You can either cook the bacon yourself, or you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits. If you're using uncooked bacon, be sure to cook it until it's crisp.

Pecans: I like to use chopped pecans for this recipe, but you can also use whole pecans.

Green onions: The green onions add a touch of sweetness to the cheese ball. If you don't have green onions, you can use chopped chives or diced onion instead.

Milk: You'll need a little bit of milk to help the cheese ball mixture come together. I prefer to use whole milk, but you can use any type of milk you have on hand.

"Everything But The Bagel" seasoning: This seasoning is a blend of salt, garlic, onion and sesame seeds. It's available in the spice aisle of most grocery stores. If you can't find it, you can use garlic salt or onion salt instead.

Onion powder: This is a optional ingredient, but I like to add a little bit of onion powder to my cheese ball mixture. It adds a nice depth of flavor.

Garlic powder: This is another optional ingredient. Garlic powder will add an extra hit of garlic flavor to the cheese ball.

Salt and pepper: Be sure to add a little bit of salt and black pepper to taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Here's a quick overview of what you'll need to do to make this recipe. Detailed instructions are included in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, "Everything But The Bagel" seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a bowl.

Step 2: Use a hand mixer (preferred), wooden spoon, or rubber spatula to mix everything together until it's well combined.

Step 3: Add half of the bacon bits, green onions, and pecans and mix everything together.

Step 4: Place a large square of plastic wrap on the countertop, then spoon the mixture on top.

Step 5: Wrap the cheese ball mixture securely in the plastic wrap and use your hands to form it into a ball.

Step 6: Place the cheese ball in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 7: In a shallow bowl, combine the remaining bacon bits, green onions, and pecans.

Step 8: Remove the cheese ball from the fridge and carefully peel off the plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the bacon, green onion, and pecan mixture, ensuring that it is completely coated.

Step 9: Transfer the cheese ball to a plate and serve with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips And Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the best cheese ball ever:

• Room temperature ingredients are key. Be sure to set the cream cheese and cheddar cheese out on the counter for at least 30 minutes before you begin making the recipe. This will ensure that they are soft enough to mix together easily.
• Use a hand mixer (preferred) or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together. A rubber spatula will work in a pinch, but it won't be as effective.
• Chill the cheese ball mixture before rolling it in the topping. This will help the cheese ball hold its shape.
• Be generous with the topping. Don't be afraid to really pile on the bacon, green onions, and pecans.

Serving Suggestions And Substitutions

Here are a few ideas for serving this cheese ball:

Crackers: Serve the cheese ball with your favorite crackers. I like to use water crackers, but any type of cracker will work.

Bagel chips: Another great option is to serve the cheese ball with bagel chips.

Vegetables: carrots, celery, and cucumber slices are all great choices.

Bread: Slices of baguette or sourdough bread are both delicious with this cheese ball.

Pretzels: Pretzels make a great dipper for this cheese ball.

Make sure that you serve this cheese ball with a cheese spreader or a butter knife to make it easy for your guests to scoop the cheese onto their chosen dipper.

One great thing about cheese balls is that they're really customizable. Here are some ideas for substitutions:

• If you can't find "Everything But The Bagel" seasoning, you can use garlic salt or onion salt instead.
• For a vegetarian version of this recipe, simply omit the bacon bits.
• If you don't like green onions, you can substitute chopped chives or leave them out completely.
• Pecans can be replaced with walnuts or almonds.

How To Store Leftovers

This cheese ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you're ready to serve it, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften slightly. You may need to add a little bit more of the topping before serving, as it will likely fall off during storage.

This cheese ball is best served within a few days of being made. However, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does a homemade cheese ball last?

A: This homemade cheese ball will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze a cheese ball?

A: Yes, you can freeze this cheese ball for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q: What can I serve with a cheese ball?

A: Crackers, bagel chips, vegetables, bread, and pretzels all make great dippers for a cheese ball.

Q: What kind of cheese is best for a cheese ball?

A: I like to use a mix of cream cheese and cheddar cheese for this recipe, but you can really use any type of cheese that you like. Try experimenting with different types of cheese until you find your favorite.

Tools And Equipment For This Recipe

Glass Mixing Bowls: These glass mixing bowls are super versatile. You can use them for mixing, storing, and serving. In this recipe, they can be used for mixing together all of the ingredients for the cheese ball and the topping.

KitchenAid Hand Mixer: This hand mixer is my go-to for mixing everything from cake mix to cheese balls. It's powerful, easy to use, and easy to clean.

Stainless Steel Measuring Cups And Spoons: This set of measuring cups and spoons is perfect for measuring out the ingredients for this pecan and bacon cheese ball recipe. I like this set because it includes everything you need and is dishwasher-safe.

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