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Creamy Dill Pickle Cheese Ball

dill pickle cheese ball - featured image

This easy, crowd-pleasing cheese ball combines tangy dill pickles, fresh dill, and sharp cheddar with creamy cheese for a nostalgic, addictive party appetizer. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or snacky dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon pickle juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2/3 cup diced dill pickles
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for coating)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes until soft.
  2. Finely dice dill pickles and chop fresh herbs; shred cheddar cheese if needed.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, mayonnaise, pickle juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
  4. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and well combined.
  5. Fold in diced pickles, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly distributed.
  6. Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap. Spoon cheese mixture onto the center, gather edges, and shape into a ball. Twist ends to secure.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight).
  8. On a plate, mix chopped nuts and parsley for the coating.
  9. Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll in coating, pressing gently to adhere.
  10. Transfer to serving platter. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  11. Serve with crackers, pretzel sticks, or veggie slices.

Notes

For best texture, soften cream cheese fully and mix until fluffy. Chill time is important for shaping. Substitute nuts with pretzels or extra herbs for nut-free. Use low-fat or vegan cream cheese for dietary needs. Serve slightly softened for best flavor. Cheese ball can be made ahead and stored up to 4 days in the fridge or 1 month in the freezer.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, dill pickle, party appetizer, easy snack, cream cheese, cheddar, holiday, potluck, vegetarian, gluten-free option