Description
Get ready to impress your guests with this irresistibly creamy and savory Olive Cheese Ball—perfect for a quick appetizer, easy dinner starter, or party snack! Loaded with sharp cheddar, briny kalamata olives, aromatic herbs, and coated in crunchy toasted pecans, this cheese ball brings bold flavor in every bite. Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or even casual snack boards, it’s one of those go-to food ideas that delivers both elegance and ease. Whether you’re looking for healthy snack alternatives or simple entertaining options, this easy recipe fits the bill.
Ingredients
2 packages cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup kalamata olives, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced
2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, minced
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¾ cup chopped pecans (for coating)
3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Let cream cheese sit at room temperature until soft and spreadable.
2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar until smooth.
3. Fold in olives, rosemary, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes if using.
4. Shape the mixture into a ball using plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Toast pecans lightly, spread them on a plate, and roll the chilled cheese ball in them to coat.
6. Serve with crackers, crostini, or veggie sticks. Garnish with rosemary or olives if desired.
Notes
Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Chill the cheese ball at least 1 hour so it firms up enough to coat and serve.
You can make it up to 2 days in advance—perfect for planning ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg