Thanksgiving Cheese Ball

Name: Thanksgiving Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 10
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives; 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your Thanksgiving appetizer spread with this delightful Thanksgiving Cheese Ball recipe. Creamy and flavorful, this festive cheese ball is made with a blend of savory cheeses and herbs, perfect for pairing with crackers, veggies, or bread. It's not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance to your holiday gatherings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-27T07:05:47.003Z

This Thanksgiving Cheese Ball is a delightful addition to your festive table. The soft, creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of cheese and herbs creates a taste sensation that will leave your guests raving!

A Festive Touch for Any Occasion

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather friends and family around delicious food, and this Thanksgiving Cheese Ball is an ideal addition to your holiday appetizer spread. Not only does it look beautiful on the table, but its rich and savory flavors will appeal to a wide range of tastes. This cheese ball can also serve as a versatile dish, making it suitable for potlucks, cocktail parties, or casual get-togethers throughout the holiday season.

What sets this cheese ball apart is its blend of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the cream cheese combined with the bold notes of blue cheese creates a delightful contrast, while the sharp cheddar adds a familiar comfort to the dish. Chopped chives lend a fresh, herbaceous bite, and the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch that elevates every bite.

Easy Preparation and Serving Suggestions

This cheese ball recipe is not only easy to make, but it also allows for customization. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses based on your preference. For instance, swapping out blue cheese for a softer goat cheese can create a milder flavor that's just as delightful. The simplicity of this recipe supports spontaneous creations, so let your culinary creativity shine during the holiday preparations.

When it comes to serving, pair the cheese ball with a variety of dippers to create an appealing platter. Crackers, fresh vegetables like carrot sticks and bell pepper slices, or crispy breadsticks are fantastic choices. You can even include some fruit, such as apple slices or grapes, for a sweet contrast to the savory cheese flavors, making your appetizer spread balanced and visually appealing.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Serve with assorted crackers, vegetable sticks, or slices of bread.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, blue cheese, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Shape the Cheese Ball

Form the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and firm up.

Coat the Cheese Ball

Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the wrap and roll it in the chopped walnuts to coat the outside evenly.

Serve

Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Serve with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, and breads.

Enjoy your festive cheese ball with family and friends!

Storing Your Cheese Ball

If you're preparing your Thanksgiving Cheese Ball in advance, it's important to know how to store it properly. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, the cheese ball can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a wonderful option for meal prep. Just make sure to keep it away from overly pungent foods, as cheese can absorb surrounding odors.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cheese ball. To freeze, wrap it securely in foil after chilling, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. A frozen cheese ball can last up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before rolling in the walnuts and serving.

Pairing Drinks with Your Cheese Ball

Pairing the right drinks with your Thanksgiving Cheese Ball can elevate your appetizer experience even further. For wine lovers, consider a crisp Chardonnay or a sparkling wine, both of which complement the creaminess of the cheese and cut through the richness. If you prefer beer, opt for a light lager or a fruity wheat beer that will refresh the palate without overpowering the flavors.

For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider can be a festive choice that provides a bit of sweetness alongside the savory bites. Additionally, herbal teas or infused waters with slices of citrus can also be refreshing beverages to serve at your gathering, providing guests with a variety of choices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for blue cheese?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute blue cheese with feta or mozzarella.