Dill Pickle Cheese Ball

Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is a tangy and savory appetizer with a delightful pickle twist. This creamy cheeseball combines the richness of cream cheese and cheddar with the crunch of dill pickles, making it a hit at any party or gathering. Its unique flavor profile offers a perfect balance of savory, tart, and fresh, creating a snack that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and dill pickles creates a unique tangy, savory flavor that is perfect for pickle lovers.

• Quick and Easy: With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this cheese ball comes together in just 10 minutes (not including the chilling time).

• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or lemon juice to suit your taste, or add in other ingredients like chopped onions or herbs.

• Party-Ready: It’s perfect for any occasion – from casual get-togethers to holiday parties. The cheese ball is easy to serve and always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheeseball:

• 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)

• 4 tablespoons sour cream

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1½ cups chopped dill pickles

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill

Coating:

• ½ cup shredded/chopped cheddar cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

1. Mix the Cheeseball
   Using a hand mixer, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix for 1-2 minutes or until smooth and fluffy.

2. Add the Flavors
   Stir in shredded cheddar, chopped pickles, and fresh dill.

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

4. Coat the Cheese Ball
   Spread shredded cheddar, fresh dill, and lemon zest in an even layer on a flat surface. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it onto the toppings to coat. Gently press the toppings into any uncovered spots.

5. Serve
   Transfer the cheese ball to a platter and serve with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a few finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist.

• Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or cream cheese with a blend of herbs for additional flavor.

• Herb Additions: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley could be added for an herby burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This cheese ball can be frozen, though the texture of the coating may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: There is no need to reheat this cheese ball; it’s best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving.

Can I use a different type of pickle?

Yes, you can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles, sweet pickles, or even spicy dill pickles if you prefer. Just be mindful of the added sweetness or heat.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream?

Yes, using low-fat or fat-free cream cheese and sour cream will reduce the calorie content, though the texture and flavor may slightly differ.

How do I make the cheese ball firmer?

If the mixture is too soft, chill it for an extra hour or add a bit more shredded cheddar to help it firm up.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Fresh dill will give the best flavor, but you can substitute dried dill if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill in place of the fresh.

Can I add nuts to the coating?

Yes, you can roll the cheese ball in finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for an added crunch and flavor.

How should I serve this cheese ball?

This cheese ball is best served with crackers, fresh vegetables like celery or carrots, or tortilla chips for dipping.

How long does the cheese ball stay fresh in the fridge?

The cheese ball will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Can I serve this at room temperature?

While this cheese ball can be served slightly softened, it’s best chilled to maintain its structure and flavor.

How can I make the cheese ball less tangy?

To reduce the tanginess, cut back on the lemon juice and pickles, or opt for a milder pickle variety.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is a flavorful, tangy, and creamy appetizer that’s easy to make and always a hit at parties. With its combination of rich cream cheese, cheddar, and crunchy dill pickles, it’s a delightful snack that’s sure to be devoured in no time!

Dill Pickle Cheese Ball

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is a tangy, creamy appetizer made with rich cream cheese, cheddar, and crunchy dill pickles. It’s the perfect party snack, offering a unique flavor combination that’s savory, tart, and fresh. Easy to prepare, this cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

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Ingredients

For the Cheeseball:

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

2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill

For the Coating:

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill

1 teaspoon lemon zest

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Instructions

• Mix the Cheeseball:
  In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer to blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.

• Add the Flavors:
  Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dill pickles, and fresh chopped dill. Mix well to combine.

• Form the Cheese Ball:
  Lay two strips of plastic wrap in an “X” shape on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center. Bring the edges of the plastic wrap together and twist at the top, forming a ball shape. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

• Coat the Cheese Ball:
  On a flat surface, spread out shredded cheddar, fresh dill, and lemon zest in an even layer. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the topping mixture, gently pressing the ingredients into any uncovered spots.

• Serve:
  Place the cheese ball on a platter and serve with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables like carrots and celery. Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley if desired.

Notes

Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy version.

Herb Variations: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for additional flavor.

Nuts for Crunch: Roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) for extra texture.

Pickle Variations: Use sweet or bread-and-butter pickles for a different flavor twist, but keep in mind they will add sweetness.

Low-fat Options: You can substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream, though it might alter the texture slightly.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Appetizer, Party Snack
• Method: Mixing, Chilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal per serving (depends on serving size)