Dill Pickle Cheese Ball Recipe

This Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is a tangy, creamy, and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings. Packed with the bold taste of dill pickles, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, it’s coated in a crunchy, zesty topping and served with your favorite crackers or veggies. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Serves: 8-10

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces cream cheese , softened
• 4 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups chopped dill pickles (finely diced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
• 1/2 cup shredded or chopped cheddar cheese (for coating)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (for coating)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for coating)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes .
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dill pickles, and fresh chopped dill until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape the Cheese Ball

1. Lay two long strips of plastic wrap in an ‘X’ shape on a flat surface. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the center of the plastic wrap.
2. Bring up the edges of the plastic wrap, twist the top to close, and tighten to shape the mixture into a ball.
3. Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 2 hours , or until firm.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

1. On a flat plate or cutting board, spread the shredded or chopped cheddar cheese, fresh chopped dill, and lemon zest evenly.
2. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the topping mixture, pressing gently to ensure the toppings adhere to the surface. Cover any bare spots by patting the toppings onto the cheese ball.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the coated cheese ball to a serving platter.
2. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or sliced vegetables like carrots and celery sticks.

Tips for Success:

• Customize the toppings: Add chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans), crispy bacon bits, or finely chopped herbs like parsley for extra texture and flavor.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Coat with toppings just before serving.
• Freeze option: Wrap the uncoated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month . Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before coating and serving.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 10):

• Calories: ~200
• Protein: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~6g
• Fat: ~18g

Enjoy this Dill Pickle Cheese Ball as a zesty, creamy, and addictive appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its tangy pickle flavor and crunchy coating make it a must-try for pickle lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike!