• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Salt & Spoon logo
  • Home
  • Recipes
    • All Recipes
    • Christmas
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Sides
    • Drinks
    • Air Fryer
    • Baking
    • How To
    • Substitutions
  • About
  • Contact
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • About
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    Home » Appetizers

    Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe

    Nov 4, 2022 · Leave a Comment

    3 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    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!

    Pecan bacon cheese ball with a scoop taken out on a cake stand with crackers.
    Jump to Recipe

    This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a commission on purchases and/or clicks (at no extra cost to you). Please read our full disclosure here.

    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!

    Contents hide
    1 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
    2 What You’ll Need To Make This Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe
    3 Step-By-Step Instructions
    4 Recipe Tips And Tricks
    5 Serving Suggestions And Substitutions
    6 How To Store Leftovers
    7 Frequently Asked Questions
    8 Tools And Equipment For This Recipe
    9 Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe
    10 More Recipes You Might Like

    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

    Ingredients needed 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.

    Cream cheese, cheddar, seasonings, and milk in a mixing bowl.
    Cheese ball ingredients in a mixing bowl.

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

    Bacon bits, green onions, and pecans mixed into cheese ball mixture.
    Pecan bacon cheese ball mixture in a bowl.

    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.

    Pecan bacon cheese ball recipe mixture on plastic wrap.
    Pecan bacon cheese ball recipe made into a ball shape.

    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.

    Topping for pecan bacon cheese ball recipe.
    Bacon pecan cheese ball rolled in coating made from bacon bits, chopped pecans, and green onions.

    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.
    Pecan bacon cheese ball served on a white platter with crackers.

    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.
    Cheese ball with bacon, pecans, and green onions on a white cake stand.

    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.

    A pecan bacon cheese ball served with crackers on a white stand.

    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.

    Pecan bacon cheese ball on a cake stand with crackers and green onions.

    Pecan Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe

    Author: Jenna
    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!
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe
    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Chill Time 30 mins
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 274 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
    • 1 cup triple cheddar cheese blend
    • 2 tablespoon milk
    • 2 teaspoon "Everything But The Bagel" seasoning
    • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
    • ½ cup bacon bits
    • ½ cup pecans chopped
    • ¼ cup green onions sliced
    • salt and black pepper to taste

    Instructions
     

    • Combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, "Everything But The Bagel" seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a bowl.
    • Use a hand mixer (preferred), wooden spoon, or rubber spatula to mix everything together until it's well combined.
    • Add half of the bacon bits, green onions, and pecans and mix everything together.
    • Place a large square of plastic wrap on the countertop, then spoon the mixture on top.
    • Wrap the cheese ball mixture securely in the plastic wrap and use your hands to form it into a ball.
    • Place the cheese ball in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes.
    • In a shallow bowl, combine the remaining bacon bits, green onions, and pecans.
    • 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.
    • Transfer the cheese ball to a plate and serve with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables. Enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 274kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 11gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 43mgSodium: 510mgPotassium: 111mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 563IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 154mgIron: 0.4mg

    * Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content may vary based on brands of ingredients used, measuring methods, portion sizes, and more.

    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    More Recipes You Might Like

    Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi
    This quick and easy air fryer gnocchi is crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Made with only shelf-stable gnocchi, oil, and a few basic seasonings, this is a great weeknight meal or side dish that can be on the table in less than 15 minutes!
    Check out this recipe
    Air fryer gnocchi in a white bowl with sauce and a mint napkin.
    Air Fryer Brie Bites With Cranberry Sauce
    Air fryer brie bites with cranberry sauce and chopped pecans are the perfect holiday appetizer! The soft and creamy brie pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberry sauce and the crunchy pecans and the pre-made phyllo shells make these bite-sized appetizers super easy to make. These bites are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering!
    Check out this recipe
    Air fryer brie bites made from brie cheese, cranberry sauce, phyllo shells, and chopped pecans.
    Maple Pecan Cookies
    These maple pecan cookies are a delicious and easy treat to make! The maple flavor is subtle and pairs perfectly with the pecans. The dough comes together quickly and doesn't require any chilling time, so you can have these cookies ready in no time at all! And they're always a hit with friends and family.
    Check out this recipe
    Maple pecan cookies stacked three high with a glass of milk.

    More Appetizer Recipes

    • A tortilla chip dipped in classic pico de gallo with more tortilla chips on the side.
      Classic Pico de Gallo
    • Mango pico de gallo served with tortilla chips.
      Mango Pico de Gallo
    • An old fashioned sloppy joe sandwich with french fries and coleslaw.
      Old Fashioned Sloppy Joe Recipe
    • Freeze-dried strawberry cake balls on a red and gold heart plate.
      No Bake Strawberry Cake Pops (Cake Balls)

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Jenna!

    Welcome to my kitchen! I’m a self-taught cook, recipe developer, and food photographer with a passion for creating easy and tasty food for everyday life. My goal is to make cooking simple, delicious, and accessible for everyone.

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Candy coated grapes dipped in crushed hard candy served in a white bowl.
      Candied Grapes TikTok Recipe
    • Two banana bread muffins stacked on top of each other with bananas in the background.
      4 Ingredient Banana Bread Muffins
    • 3 ingredient pineapple dump cake served in a white bowl with a scoop of coconut icecream.
      3 Ingredient Pineapple Dump Cake
    • Air fryer potatoes and carrots on a white platter with parsley.
      Air Fryer Potatoes And Carrots

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Image Use Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2023 Salt & Spoon

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT