When you need a fancy party appetizer, don’t look further than this easy Bacon Cheese Ball. We’re using a mixture of cheeses, like cream cheese, Boursin, cheddar, and pepper jack. No mayo — the cream cheese works as a binder.
We formed a cheese ball wreath, but you could do it as a regular ball if it’s not for the holidays. You’ll love the flavor from the crispy bacon, and we cover the whole thing with parsley, then add additional fresh herbs to garnish. It’s a perfect appetizer for almost any occasion!
Easy recipes are my jam. I’m a pretty lazy cook most of the time, so if I come up with something I can throw together with minimal effort, like this Christmas Wreath Charcuterie Board or my Sheet Pan Nachos, I’m putting those recipes on repeat. Ain’t nobody got time for recipes that take hours to make!
Testing results for the bacon cheese ball
- I tried different cheeses when making this recipe and ultimately settled on a simple mix of cream cheese, Boursin, cheddar, and pepper jack. The cream cheese and Boursin bind the other cheeses together so it’s easy to form a wreath like we did here, or whatever shape you want.
I hope you make this recipe. I think you’ll love it!
Ingredient notes
Here are a few things to know about the ingredients in this recipe.
➡️➡️➡️ The full ingredient amounts and instructions are listed below on the printable recipe card. Scroll below the recipe card for frequently asked questions and tips for success.
Cream cheese: Y’all know I only use Philadelphia cream cheese. And no low-fat garbage.
Boursin cheese: I used the original garlic and herbs flavor, but you could use any flavor. The basil and chives would be delicious.
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Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1 (5.3 ounce) package Boursin cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, finely crumbled
- ½ cup green onions, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For decorating
- ½ cup fresh or dried parsley flakes
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme sprigs)
- ¼ cup sliced black and green olives
- crackers, crostini, or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 16 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened, 1 (5.3 ounce) package Boursin cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup cooked bacon, finely crumbled, 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper until well combined.
- Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the wrap and shape into a rough ring. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and use your hands to mold into a smooth wreath shape. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving platter. Pat the outside with 1/2 cup fresh or dried parsley flakes until evenly coated. Garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs tucked around the wreath and decorate with olive slices to resemble ornaments.Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition
Questions and tips
Storage
Store the bacon cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Yes, you can use different cheeses for the cheese ball. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby work well, but it’s best to stick with at least one sharp cheese for flavor.
