Looking for an easy make-ahead appetizer or snack? This Chili Cheese Ball is quick, tasty, and has been a family favorite for decades. It’s a simple, flavorful upgrade to the classic cheese-and-cracker tray.
Cheese Ball with Chili Powder
This chili cheese ball is incredibly easy to make with common pantry ingredients: cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, lemon juice, chili powder, garlic powder, chopped pecans (optional), and smoked paprika for finishing. You can prepare it in minutes and chill it until it’s time to serve.
Whip the mixture with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, then shape it using plastic wrap. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and serve with your favorite crackers. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. The cheese ball disappears fast every time.
If you like this flavor profile, you might enjoy other savory recipes in the same easy appetizer family such as a Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Ball or a White Pizza Dip.
How to Make Chili Cheese Ball
- Combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, lemon juice, chili powder, and garlic powder in a bowl. Use an electric mixer and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the chopped pecans if using.
- Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on the counter and spoon the cheese mixture into the center. Wrap the plastic around the mixture and form it into a ball or a log. Chill if desired, then place on a serving dish and remove the plastic wrap.
- Sprinkle the outside with smoked paprika — either a light dusting or a solid coating, depending on your preference. Serve with crackers and store leftovers in the refrigerator.
This simple appetizer has been served at many family gatherings and is now one of our go-to recipes. It’s easy to scale and ideal for making ahead so you can focus on other party details.
- Easy Fruit Tray
- Easy Cinnamon Fruit Dip
- Vegetable Tray
- Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Spicy Pretzels
Chili Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
-
Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, lemon juice, chili powder, and garlic powder in a bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Stir in chopped pecans if desired.
-
Use plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a ball or log. Place on a serving dish, remove the plastic wrap, and sprinkle the outside with smoked paprika. Serve with crackers and refrigerate any leftovers.
Nutrition
“Plowing Through Life” is not a dietitian or nutrition professional. Any nutritional information shared is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific products used. If precise nutrition facts matter to you, consider running the ingredients through a nutritional calculator.
Did you make this recipe?
Follow PlowingThroughLife on social platforms for more recipes and leave your thoughts below.
Rate This Recipe
Pin This Recipe