Ingredients
Scale
- 2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cups pecans, chopped (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Cheese Ball Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained pineapple, chopped green onions, bell pepper, 1 cup of chopped pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. The soft cream cheese blends all the flavors perfectly, making this step essential.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Form the mixture into a ball shape using your hands or plastic wrap. If it feels too soft, pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up. This short chill time makes shaping it much easier.
- Coat with Pecans: Spread the remaining 1 cup of chopped pecans on a flat surface or in a shallow dish. Gently roll the cheese ball in the pecans until it’s fully coated. This pecan layer adds the perfect crunch to every bite.
- Chill: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal. Letting the flavors meld together takes the taste to another level!
- Serve: Unwrap and serve chilled with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks. This appetizer pairs perfectly with crunchy sides, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Notes
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the cheese ball a day in advance for a stress-free gathering.
- Variations: Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
- Add a kick: For a spicier version, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (No cooking required)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz
- Calories: 120kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg