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Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball

Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball

This bacon cheddar cheese ball combines full-fat cream cheese, sharp cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and crispy bacon for a no-cook party appetizer that takes ten minutes to mix. The chilled ball firms for at least 4 hours, while the final roll in bacon creates the signature savory crust. Serve it with Ritz crackers, celery, and carrot batons at a holiday gathering or game day party when you need a reliable crowd pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Cheese Ball
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1463
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese softened (do not use fat free)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (fresh not bacon bits)

Equipment

  • Hand mixer
  • Cookie scoop
  • Plastic wrap
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Mix the Cheese Base
    Add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt to a large mixing bowl. Beat until the ingredients are smooth and evenly combined.
    Pause to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl twice during mixing. This helps incorporate any cream cheese that may stick to the bowl and ensures the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  2. Shape and Chill the Cheese Ball
    Gather the cheese mixture together and shape it into a compact ball using clean hands or a spatula. Place the cheese ball on a sheet of plastic wrap and wrap it tightly, making sure the entire surface is covered.
    Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the cheese ball is firm enough to hold its shape. The chilling time is important because it allows the mixture to firm up and makes it easier to coat and serve.
  3. Coat with Bacon
    Place the crumbled bacon in a shallow bowl or dish. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it through the bacon, turning it as needed until the entire surface is evenly covered.
    Press the bacon gently onto any bare spots so it adheres to the cheese ball.
  4. Bring to Serving Temperature
    Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This softens the cheese slightly, making it easier to spread onto crackers and other dippers.

Recipe Notes

Make Ahead: The cheese ball can be prepared up to 1 week in advance if you leave off the bacon. Wrap it tightly and keep it refrigerated until ready to finish and serve.
Bacon Topping: Once the cheese ball is coated with bacon, it is best enjoyed within 24–48 hours. The exact storage time depends on how quickly the bacon softens and becomes soggy.
Best Texture: For the crispest bacon coating, add the bacon as close to serving time as possible.