Name: Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened; 2 cups (226 g) pepper jack cheese, finely shredded; 2 tablespoons whole-grain Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons dried chives; 2 teaspoons dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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I enjoy making this Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball when I want a creamy, bold-flavored appetizer that feels classic and comforting. It has a smooth texture with a subtle kick from the spices and pepper jack cheese, making it perfect for sharing at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. I can prepare it ahead of time, and it always turns out rich, savory, and full of flavor. It is easy to customize and works well for parties, holidays, or relaxed snack boards.

Ingredients

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

2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 cups (226 g) pepper jack cheese, finely shredded
2 tablespoons whole-grain Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons dried chives
2 teaspoons dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

I start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large bowl and mixing it until smooth and creamy. I then add the shredded pepper jack cheese, Dijon mustard, dried chives, dried parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. I mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Once the mixture is smooth, I shape it into a ball using my hands or a spatula. I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour so it can firm up before serving.

Servings And Timing

I usually get about 10 to 12 servings from this cheese ball.
Prep time is around 10 minutes.
Chill time is 1 hour.
Total time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper when I want extra heat. I also like swapping pepper jack cheese for sharp cheddar or Colby jack for a milder flavor. Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter taste.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since this is a chilled appetizer, I do not reheat it. I let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving so it softens slightly.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I often prepare it up to one day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.

What should I serve with this cheese ball?

I like serving it with crackers, pretzels, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables.

Can I freeze this cheese ball?

I do not recommend freezing it, as the texture can become grainy once thawed.

How spicy is this cheese ball?

I find it mildly spicy, but I can easily adjust the heat by changing the cheese or adding more spices.

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

I can use it, but the cheese ball will be softer and less rich than when using full-fat cream cheese.

Conclusion

This Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball is one of my favorite easy appetizers because it is creamy, flavorful, and simple to prepare. I like how versatile it is and how well it fits into almost any occasion.