Cheesy Dill Pickle Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe
This Cheesy Dill Pickle Bacon Cheese Ball is a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer combining creamy cream cheese, tangy dill pickles, savory bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for parties or gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for cooking bacon)
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball Mixture
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chopped dill pickles, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic, fresh or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped small (half of total bacon)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (white and yellow), divided
- 2.5 green onions, chopped (half of total)
Coating
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped small (remaining half)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (remaining)
- 2.5 green onions, chopped (remaining half)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill pickles, dill pickle juice, minced garlic (or garlic powder), onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add bacon and cheese: Stir in half of the cooked, chopped bacon, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to distribute the flavors.
- Incorporate green onions: Add half of the chopped green onions into the mixture and combine evenly.
- Shape the cheese ball: Using damp hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into a compact ball. Place it on a serving plate.
- Coat the cheese ball: Roll and press the cheese ball in the remaining shredded cheddar, chopped bacon, and green onions to fully coat the exterior, creating a flavorful crust.
- Chill: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes prior to serving to allow it to soften slightly for easier spreading.
Notes
- For best results, pat the chopped dill pickles dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Use freshly cooked bacon for crunchier texture and better flavor.
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend by adding your favorite sharp or mild cheeses.
- If you want to make this recipe ahead, the cheese ball can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a complete appetizer experience.
Keywords: cheese ball, dill pickle, bacon, appetizer, party food, creamy cheese ball, cheddar cheese
