Description
This Cheddar Pickle Cheeseball is a delightful and flavorful appetizer combining creamy softened cream cheese with the tangy zest of dill pickle relish, chopped pickles, and sharp cheddar cheese. Enhanced with fresh dill and garlic powder, this no-bake cheeseball is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a savory and creamy bite that pairs wonderfully with crackers or vegetables.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tbsp dill pickle relish
- ½ cup dill pickle slices, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Coating
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Additional fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, chopped fresh dill, dill pickle relish, roughly chopped dill pickle slices, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste to balance the flavors.
- Shape and Chill: Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Then, shape the mixture into a compact ball using your hands or a spatula. Wrap it in plastic wrap or cover it, and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
- Coat and Garnish: After chilling, roll the cheeseball in the remaining shredded cheddar cheese to coat its exterior evenly. Sprinkle additional fresh dill on top for a fresh, aromatic garnish. Serve chilled with crackers, sliced vegetables, or as part of a party platter.
Notes
- For best results, use cream cheese softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Adjust the amount of pickle relish and chopped pickles based on your preference for tanginess and texture.
- This cheeseball can be made a day ahead and stored, well wrapped, in the refrigerator to enhance flavor.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks such as celery, carrot, or cucumber.
- To make preparation easier, shred your own cheddar cheese from a block for better flavor and texture.
