Garlic Cheese Ball

I know I’m not alone in thinking that cheesy appetizers are the life of the party. Whether it’s a beautiful charcuterie board or a melty dip, they’re always the first snacks to disappear. This garlic cheese ball is no exception—it’s an easy-peasy crowd-pleasing starter perfect for parties, potlucks, holidays and game days.

This creamy, garlicky Parmesan cheese ball is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Just mix softened cream cheese with a handful of flavorful ingredients, shape the mixture into a ball and roll it in a crunchy walnut coating that looks fancy but couldn’t be simpler. Want to switch things up? Try coating it in fresh herbs or other nuts for a colorful twist. Serve the garlic cheese ball with crackers, crisp veggies or chips, and watch it disappear fast!

Garlic Cheese Ball Ingredients

• Cream cheese: This is the base of the cheese ball, so you’ll want to use regular cream cheese (not whipped) to create a firm ball. Be sure to soften cream cheese to room temperature so it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan “melts” into the cream cheese, adding salty, nutty umami and helping firm up the cheese ball mixture. For the best flavor and texture, grate it yourself rather than using pre-grated.
• Mayonnaise: A bit of mayo adds a bit of tang to balance the richness of the cream cheese. You can swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter, even tangier version.
• Seasoning: Dried oregano brings an earthy, herby note, while garlic gives the mixture a savory flavor and aroma. We like garlic powder here because it blends evenly, but you can use minced fresh garlic for a sharper punch.
• Walnuts: Rolling your cheese ball in chopped walnuts is optional, but it adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior. Feel free to swap in chopped pecans or sliced almonds, or try a nut-free coating (see below for ideas).
• Veggies or crackers for dipping: Serve your cheese ball with a variety of crackers and crunchy veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper strips, sliced cucumbers or baby carrots.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Mix in the grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, oregano and garlic (either garlic powder or minced fresh garlic) until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Shape the ball and garnish

Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a ball. If desired, roll the cheese ball in chopped walnuts.

Editor’s Tip: If the cheese mixture feels too sticky to shape, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. It will firm up, making it much easier to roll into a ball and coat with nuts.

Step 3: Chill the cheese ball, then serve

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in storage wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. Serve the cheese ball with assorted fresh vegetables and crackers for dipping.

Editor’s Tip: Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Garlic Cheese Ball Variations

• Switch up the nuts: Coat your cheese ball with chopped pecans or almonds for a different nutty finish. Toast the nuts before chopping to enhance their flavor.
• Replace the Parmesan: Customize the flavor of your cheesy mixture by swapping in shredded cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for extra creaminess or pepper jack for zip.
• Try a different garnish: Instead of nuts, roll your cheese ball in minced chives or fresh parsley for a colorful touch. For a savory, salty twist, coat it with finely chopped cooked bacon or chipped beef.
• Add some heat: Stir a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper or a bit of prepared horseradish into the cream cheese mixture for a zesty kick.
• Make a garlic ranch cheese ball: Omit the oregano and add ranch seasoning for an herbier, tangier spread.
• Create an everything bagel cheese ball: Roll the cheese ball in everything bagel seasoning instead of walnuts and serve with crunchy bagel chips for a fun spin on bagels and smear.

How to Store a Garlic Cheese Ball

Keep your garlic cheese ball tightly wrapped and chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Wrap leftovers in a fresh piece of storage wrap or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Can you freeze a garlic and Parmesan cheese ball?

Yes! You can freeze a garlic and Parmesan cheese ball for up to two months. Wrap it tightly in storage wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or add a layer of aluminum foil to protect it against freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can you make a garlic cheese ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix and shape the garlic cheese ball one or two days before a gathering. Keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge—the flavors will meld and taste even better after a little extra chill time.

Garlic Cheese Ball Tips

Can I use low-fat or whipped cream cheese?

You can use low-fat cream cheese, but it won’t be as rich as full-fat. We don’t recommend using whipped cream cheese in this recipe—it’s too light and airy to create a firm cheese ball. Not sure which cream cheese to buy? Here are the cream cheese brands that have earned top marks in our Test Kitchen.

What else can you put on the outside of a cheese ball?

There are lots of ways to dress up your cheese ball! For crunch, try chopped pecans or almonds instead of walnuts, or use a nut-free option like crushed crackers, pretzels or everything bagel seasoning. Fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color, or you can coat it in chopped cooked bacon or chipped beef for a smoky twist.

How do I make mini garlic cheese balls?

To make bite-sized garlic cheese balls, scoop the mixture by the tablespoon and roll it into mini balls. Chill them in the refrigerator until firm, then roll them in your choice of coating for easy bite-sized appetizers.

What else can I serve with a garlic cheese ball?

We love smearing this savory cheese spread on crackers, but pita chips, sliced baguette, tortilla chips and pretzels are also perfect for scooping. Fresh veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper strips or cucumber slices bring a crisp, refreshing balance to the rich, garlicky cheese.