Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

With its creamy, crunchy, salty, and full of rich, smoky flavor  that makes it the star of any gathering, this Pecan-Bacon Cheeseball is always a hit.  Whether it’s game night, a holiday party, or just a casual snack with family, this recipe is quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

I love this recipe because it’s so simple to whip up, but it feels fancy and indulgent. With only a few minutes of prep, you can create a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better. Plus, the combination of creamy cheese, crisp bacon, and crunchy pecans is impossible to resist.

This is the kind of recipe you can make ahead of time if you know company is coming, or whip it up and serve it right away. It’ll keep in the fridge for a few days, and as long as your cream cheese is softened, this recipe comes together in no time.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese – Softened.
• Cheddar cheese – Shredded; I like sharp cheddar.
• Bacon bits – You can buy precooked crumbles or make them yourself.
• Pecans – Chopped; toast the pecans first for extra crunch.
• Green onions – Sliced.
• Milk 
• Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt – To taste.
• Black crushed pepper – To taste.

How to Make Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

1. Add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Everything But The Bagel Seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, milk, salt, and pepper in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Mix the ingredients using a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Stir in half of the bacon bits, half of the green onions, and half of the chopped pecans. 
4. Place a piece of plastic wrap on your counter and transfer the cheese mixture onto it.
5. Wrap the cheese mixture tightly in the plastic wrap, then shape it into a ball.
6. Chill the cheeseball in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Prepare the coating by combining the remaining bacon bits, chopped pecans, and green onions in a shallow bowl.
8. Unwrap the chilled cheeseball and roll it in the prepared coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure the entire surface is evenly coated.
9. Serve the cheeseball with crackers, veggies, or your favorite dippers, and enjoy!

Step-By-Step Process

Chef Jenn’s Tips

• Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
• For an extra smoky flavor, try using smoked cheddar or adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Toast the pecans lightly before chopping them to enhance their nutty flavor.
• If you prefer, substitute turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits for a different spin.
• To keep the cheeseball perfectly round, roll it gently between your hands after coating it.

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Serving suggestions

This Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is perfect as an appetizer or snack, but you can also serve it as part of a larger charcuterie board. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies like carrots and celery, and a mix of fruits such as grapes or apple slices.

Storage

This cheeseball is easy to store and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Wrap the cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.