The Best Cheese Ball Appetizer

 This Cheese Ball appetizer is simple to make, no baking required.

Classic Southern easy appetizer! Who doesn’t love throwback cheese balls!? It brings back so many fun memories around the holidays and being a kid. Perfect for when the time calls for a holiday appetizer. It travels very well, if you’re bringing it to a party.

INGREDIENTS

1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
1/4 cup mayo
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 teaspoons Tabasco
3 green onions, chopped
2/3 cup fresh bacon crumbles
1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder
¾ cup pepper jelly (I find Apricot preserves tastes yummy to)

TOPPING

1 cups pecans, chopped
3 green onions, chopped
1/3 cup bacon crumbles

PREPARATION

 In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayo, sour cream, shredded cheeses, green onion, bacon bits, tabasco, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Roll the mixture into a ball.

For the Topping:

Sprinkle chopped pecans, bacon, and green onion evenly on the bottom of a bowl.
Spoon the cheese mixture into the bowl, rolling the ball to cover it evenly with the cream cheese mixture. Place on a platter.

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

To Serve:

Remove the top plastic wrap. 

Serve with jelly/preserves on the side.

 The cheese spread pairs well with a variety of crackers. Here are some great options:

• Butter crackers (e.g., Ritz) for a soft, buttery bite.
• Water crackers for a neutral, crisp option that lets the flavors shine.
• Multigrain or seeded crackers for added texture and flavor.
• Pretzel crisps for a salty, crunchy contrast.
• Wheat crackers for a hearty, slightly sweet compliment.

This cheese spread with bacon, pecans, and pepper jelly pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks.

Here are some excellent options:

Wines

• Chardonnay: A rich, buttery chardonnay compliments the creaminess and nuttiness.
• Riesling or Moscato: A slightly sweet wine balances the savory and spicy flavors.
• Pinot Noir: A light red wine with fruity notes pairs well with the bacon and cheese.

Beers

• Pilsner: Light and crisp to balance the richness of the cheese.
• Amber Ale: Adds a malty, caramel flavor that compliments the bacon and pecans.
• IPA: The slight bitterness works well with the tangy pepper jelly.

Cocktails

• Old Fashioned: The bourbon and hint of sweetness compliment the savory flavors.
• Margarita: A classic or spicy margarita enhances the pepper jelly.
• Gin and Tonic: Light and refreshing, cutting through the richness.

Non-Alcoholic

• Sparkling water with lime or lemon: A refreshing palate cleanser.

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