Description
A creamy and flavorful Parmesan Peppercorn Cheese Ball perfect for parties and gatherings. This easy-to-make appetizer combines cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan with herbs, spices, and a fresh cracked pepper crust for a delicious, savory bite. Serve it with crackers or veggies for an impressive yet simple starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Herbs and Spices
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tsp cracked black pepper (plus extra for rolling)
Optional Coating
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for rolling)
Instructions
- Combine the cheeses and seasonings: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, Parmesan, cheddar, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and fully combined.
- Incorporate fresh herbs and pepper: Stir in chopped parsley, chives, and cracked black pepper evenly throughout the mixture.
- Shape the cheese ball: Using your hands, form the mixture into a ball. If too sticky, refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up before shaping.
- Coat with pepper and pecans: Spread extra cracked black pepper on a plate and roll the cheese ball in it, pressing lightly. For extra crunch and flavor, roll in chopped pecans as well. Garnish with extra parsley and chives if desired.
- Chill the cheese ball: Refrigerate the shaped cheese ball for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and to firm up.
- Serve at room temperature: Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Present with crackers, fresh vegetable slices, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For best texture, allow cheese ball to soften slightly before serving.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for more robust flavor.
- Pecans can be substituted with chopped walnuts or almonds.
- This cheese ball can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Adjust the amount of cracked pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
