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Garlic cheese ball

Garlic Lovers Cheese Ball: The Ultimate 10-Minute Appetizer

This garlic lovers cheese ball is packed with fresh minced garlic, creamy cheeses, Italian herbs, and a crunchy nut coating that creates the perfect savory bite. Ready in just 10 minutes of prep and even better when made ahead, it's the ideal appetizer for holidays, gatherings, and last-minute entertaining.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 people
Course: Appetizer, Party Food
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1-2 tsp fresh garlic, finely minced (1 tsp for mild, 2 tsp for strong)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup Italian cheese blend, shredded
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2-1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), toasted if desired

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or spatula
  • Garlic press or knife
  • Shallow plate for rolling nuts
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

  1. Allow cream cheese to fully soften at room temperature. Finely mince garlic. Chop nuts into small pieces and toast if desired for enhanced flavor.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add minced garlic, sour cream, Parmesan, Italian cheese blend, and Italian seasoning. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour, or until firm enough to shape. This helps flavors meld and improves texture.
  4. Once chilled, form the mixture into a ball using your hands or a large spoon.
  5. Spread chopped nuts on a plate. Roll the cheese ball in the nuts, pressing gently until fully coated on all sides.
  6. Refrigerate until ready to serve. For best flavor, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

The garlic flavor strengthens as the cheese ball rests, so making it the day before serving creates a deeper, more balanced flavor. Adjust garlic quantity based on preference. Toasting nuts enhances richness and adds depth.

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