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A platter of easy party appetizers football fans will love, including chicken wings, sliders, and veggies with dip, arranged on a gameday-themed table.

Football-Shaped Cheese Ball

This impressive, no-bake Football Cheese Ball is the ultimate savory centerpiece for any game day party. It's packed with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, bacon, and green onions, coated in crunchy nuts, and decorated with cheese laces for a fun, festive look. Easy to make ahead, it's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleasing touchdown.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup real bacon bits or 6 slices crispy bacon, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped green onions green and white parts
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 2-3 strips white cheddar cheese or string cheese for laces
  • Assorted crackers, pretzel rods, and vegetable sticks for serving

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sturdy spatula
  • Plastic wrap
  • Plate or baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or plate for coating
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, bacon bits, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
  2. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or clean hands until fully and evenly combined with no streaks of cream cheese.
  3. If the mixture is too soft to shape, cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Place a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Transfer the cheese mixture to the center.
  5. With clean hands, mold the cheese into a football shape: form a fat log, then pinch and taper the ends to create points.
  6. Wrap the shaped ball tightly in the plastic wrap. Roll it gently on the counter to smooth the surface.
  7. Place the wrapped ball on a plate and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until very firm (overnight is ideal).
  8. Spread the finely chopped nuts on a plate or parchment paper.
  9. Unwrap the firm cheese ball and roll it evenly in the nuts, pressing gently to adhere the coating on all sides. Place it on the serving platter.
  10. Cut the white cheddar or string cheese into very thin strips. Arrange five strips down the center top of the football to create the laces, pressing them in slightly to stick.
  11. Arrange crackers, pretzels, and vegetable sticks around the cheese ball on the platter and serve.

Notes

Make-Ahead: The cheese ball can be fully assembled and coated in nuts up to 2 days ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate; add the cheese laces just before serving. Variations: For a nut-free coating, use everything bagel seasoning, crushed pretzels, or fried onions. Add a finely chopped jalapeño or hot sauce for spice. Swap bacon for pepperoni or ham. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese. Serving Tip: Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving for easier spreading.