Name: BEST Classic Cheeseball in 10 Minutes (Mom's famous recipe!)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon onion (chopped finely); 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 1/2 teaspoon chives or green onions; 1 tablespoon parsley; 1 tablespoon organic mayonnaise; 4 ounces can baby shrimp (drained) or crumbled cooked bacon; 1/2 cup Crushed nuts of your choice (I like pecans or walnuts)

Need an easy, classic appetizer that your guests will love? Then you have to try our BEST Classic Cheeseball. Cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crunchy pecans, spices and either baby shrimp or bacon crumbles combine to create the perfect savory snack to entertain at all your holiday parties, game days, and more in 10 minutes!

BEST cheeseball on a serving spoon in hand

This cheeseball recipe is one that has been in our family for 30+ years and is THE appetizer that my cousins al request at any family gathering. We used to just make one but it got gobbled up so fast that we had to start making two. It really is that delicious!

Whether you enjoy it with crackers or fresh cut veggies, it is sure to be a hit! I prefer it with the baby shrimp but my hubby likes the bacon best. Well, now that is. For 20 years he ate it with shrimp and loved it but once he found out it had shrimp, he will only eat it with bacon now. He never even knew it had shrimp so that tells you have mild the flavor is. It just adds a nice, salty touch.

Why I love this easy cheeseball recipe

The secret ingredient: there's a secret ingredient that might surprise you, but trust me, it's the key to the perfect flavor and texture profile of this cheese ball the first time and every time!
Impressive, yet effortless: This cheeseball makes a great centerpiece for any occasion, especially as a classic holiday appetizer. Plus, it comes together in 10 minutes.
The versatility: Like this gluten-free charcuterie board, you can serve this recipe for family dinners or special events.
Make ahead option: You can prepare this homemade cheeseball, and this instant pot artichoke dip, in advance to save yourself precious time in the kitchen. They are great make ahead appetizers.

If you're a cheese lover and need another good cheese ball recipe, you'll love this pineapple cheeseball and beef cheeseball. Try this instant pot vegan queso, melting pot cheese fondue, or even these mini cheeseballs with a pretzel stick are all also a crowd pleaser at your next party. Not to mention super easy recipes.

What you need to make it

Cream cheese
Cheddar cheese
Lemon juice
Onion
Garlic salt
Chives or green onions
Parsley
Mayonnaise
SECRET INGREDIENT! Baby shrimp or crumbled cooked bacon
Crushed nuts: I like pecans or walnuts

How to make a cheeseball

Mix: Combine cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, lemon juice, onion, garlic salt (you could also add a bit of garlic powder if you want more garlic flavor), chives, parsley, baby shrimp, and mayo into a medium bowl or large bowl (either works) until combined.

The coating: Add crushed nuts onto wax paper and roll the cheeseball onto the crushed nuts.

Chill: Let the best cheese ball refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. Remove from the fridge 10 minutes before serving so the cheese gets soft. It can continue to be served at room temperature while guests enjoy.

Pro tip: Next time you need to chop nuts, place them in a blender for a food processor for a quick and easy way to chop them!

Make ahead, storage, and freezing instructions

How to make ahead: I recommend making this cheeseball the day or night before and storing in the fridge until you're ready to serve. This extra chill time allows all the flavors to meld together.

How to store: Store this cheeseball wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to a week.

Can you freeze cream cheese balls? Yes, you can freeze this easy cheeseball wrapped in a piece of plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Do note, that cheese has a tendency to dry out after it has been frozen so serve fresh for best results.

BEST cheeseball on wood platter with crackers

Recipe variations

Omit the shrimp - With that being said, if you don't like shrimp, crispy BACON works great! Just cook it up and crumble then add it in place of the shrimp.
A little kick - Diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and/or a splash of hot sauce or even try some blue cheese or Worcestershire sauce
Sweet and Savory - Dried cranberries, a drizzle of honey, a spoonful of sour cream and a handful of chopped rosemary gives this good cheese ball a sweet and savory flavor.

BEST cheeseball on a wood platter with crackers

More easy appetizers you'll love

This small charcuterie board is the perfect appetizer for a small crowd.
Along with this cheeseball, this super bowl charcuterie board is a great appetizer for super bowl Sunday.
If you're feeding a large crowd, you can serve this cheeseball on a grazing table.
For those who don't like cheese, consider serving a vegan charcuterie board.