This Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is a creamy, tangy, and crunchy appetizer that brings bold flavors to any gathering. Packed with chopped pickles, sharp cheddar, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic, it’s rolled in crunchy coating for the perfect contrast. Whether I’m hosting a holiday party, game night, or just want a fun snack, this recipe always delivers.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe strikes the perfect balance of creamy and zesty. The dill pickles add a burst of flavor that makes every bite exciting, while the cheese keeps things rich and satisfying. It’s easy to make ahead, which saves me time, and it’s a hit with both pickle lovers and those just looking for something a little different on the appetizer table. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable based on what I have in my fridge.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cream cheese, softened
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Dill pickles, finely chopped
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Cheddar cheese, shredded
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Dried dill or fresh dill
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Worcestershire sauce (optional)
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Green onions, finely chopped
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Coating mix: extra shredded cheese, chopped pickles, and green onions
Directions
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I start by mixing the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
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Then I fold in the chopped pickles, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and Worcestershire sauce if I’m using it.
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I shape the mixture into a ball using plastic wrap to help mold it cleanly.
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After wrapping, I chill it in the fridge for at least one hour so it firms up.
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Once it’s set, I roll the cheese ball in a mix of extra shredded cheese, chopped pickles, and green onions to give it a fun texture and great presentation.
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I serve it with crackers, pretzels, or even veggie sticks.
Servings and timing
This cheese ball serves 8 to 10 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes swap the cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy twist.
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I’ve also tried mixing in a bit of ranch seasoning for an extra punch.
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Rolling the ball in crushed pretzels instead of cheese gives it a fun crunch.
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If I want a lighter version, I use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar.
Storage/Reheating
I keep the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
I don’t recommend freezing it because the texture tends to break down once thawed.
If it softens too much at room temperature, I pop it back in the fridge to firm it up before serving again.
FAQs
What can I serve with a dill pickle cheese ball?
I like to serve it with buttery crackers, pretzels, sliced baguette, or even carrot and celery sticks for a lighter option.
Can I make this cheese ball in advance?
Yes, I usually make it a day ahead and store it wrapped in the fridge. I roll it in the coating just before serving to keep it fresh.
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
I prefer dill for the tangy flavor, but sweet pickles can be used for a milder, slightly sweet variation.
How do I keep the cheese ball from being too soft?
Chilling is key. I always make sure it chills for at least an hour before shaping and rolling, and I keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
I haven’t tried a dairy-free version yet, but using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives should work as long as they’re firm enough to shape.
Conclusion
This Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is my go-to when I need something flavorful, easy, and fun for a party. It’s a breeze to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. I love how the creamy cheese pairs with the tangy pickle bits—it’s the kind of appetizer I make once and keep coming back to. Try it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation too.
Print
Tangy Dill Pickle Cheese Ball for Parties and Snacking
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8–10 as an appetizer
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake, Mix and Chill
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tangy Dill Pickle Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer—creamy, zesty, and packed with bold flavors from dill pickles, sharp cheddar, and herbs. Perfect for game day, holidays, or casual snacking, it’s easy to make ahead and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried dill or 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Coating mix: extra shredded cheddar, additional chopped pickles, chopped green onions
Instructions
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In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Fold in chopped pickles, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and Worcestershire (if using).
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Transfer mixture to plastic wrap and form into a ball; wrap tightly.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
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Before serving, roll the cheese ball in a coating mixture of shredded cheese, chopped pickles, and green onions.
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Serve with crackers, pretzels, sliced baguette, or veggie sticks.
Notes
- For extra tang, mix in a little ranch seasoning.
- Substitute crushed pretzels for a crunchy coating.
- Store wrapped in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Not suitable for freezing due to texture changes.
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