Toast the pecans for enhanced flavor: Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool completely before chopping. For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Feel free to customize the cheese blend to your preference. Smoked Gouda or Gruyere would also be delicious additions. This cheese ball can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. To freeze, wrap the cheese ball tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Thanksgiving Cheese Ball
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME0 mins
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TOTAL TIME4 hrs 15 mins
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SERVING8 People
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VIEWS162
Elevate your Thanksgiving appetizer spread with this delightfully savory cheese ball. A harmonious blend of creamy, sharp, and tangy cheeses, studded with briny olives and encased in a crunchy pecan shell, it's the perfect prelude to your holiday feast. Make ahead and impress your guests!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate3 g
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Cholesterol51 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein8 g
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Saturated Fat11 g
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Sodium462 mg
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Sugar1 g
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Fat23 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a food processor, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, crumbled blue cheese, grated onion, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. (5 minutes)
02
StepProcess until the mixture is smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed. (3-5 minutes)
03
StepAdd the coarsely chopped green olives to the food processor and pulse briefly until they are incorporated into small chunks throughout the cheese mixture. Avoid over-processing. (1-2 minutes)
04
StepTransfer the cheese mixture to a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball, using the plastic wrap to help mold it. (5 minutes)
05
StepSpread the finely chopped, toasted pecans onto a plate or shallow dish. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to ensure they adhere to the surface, coating the entire ball evenly. (5 minutes)
06
StepWrap the cheese ball tightly in fresh plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up. (4+ hours)
07
StepBefore serving, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with an assortment of your favorite crackers, baguette slices, or crudités.
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Marge Von
Jun 6, 2025I added a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. It was delicious!
Alvah Armstrong
Mar 10, 2025Freezing it ahead of time was a lifesaver. I was able to enjoy the holiday without stressing about appetizers.
Osbaldo Bins
Mar 4, 2025The blue cheese was a bit strong for some of my guests, so I might use a milder variety next time.
Brooke Bogisich
Feb 3, 2025This was a HUGE hit at our Thanksgiving! Everyone loved it, and it was so easy to make ahead.
Danielle Welch
Dec 5, 2024The toasting of the pecans really makes a difference. Don't skip that step!
Jennie Kirlin
Nov 8, 2024The green olives really make this cheese ball stand out from all the rest!
Kayley Cormier
Mar 27, 2024Great recipe. I made a small change and added bacon bits. It gives the cheese ball a smokey flavor.
Tressie Jakubowski
Feb 28, 2024Super easy to make and everyone loved it!