Everything Bagel Cheese Ball – This Everything Bagel Cheese Ball is my go-to for any gathering—it’s one of those recipes that’s just a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Creamy, tangy, and full of that classic everything bagel flavor, it’s like the best parts of a bagel in one delicious cheese ball. Serve it up with bagel chips or fresh veggies, and trust me, people will be asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first bite!
The first time I made this, I was totally winging it. I needed something fast for a last-minute gathering, and thought, “Why not try turning everything bagel seasoning into a cheese ball?” Honestly, I didn’t expect it to be such a hit. As soon as I set it down, everyone just dug in! My husband kept sneaking back for more, and even my little one, who’s usually so picky, was all over it with some crunchy veggies. Now it’s become a staple in our house. If we’re going to a party or hosting, this cheese ball is always on the table—it’s just too easy, too good, and brings everyone around.
What makes this Everything Bagel Cheese Ball truly special?
This cheese ball isn’t just a snack; it’s a little moment of happiness. It’s got that perfect creamy texture from the cream cheese, the sharpness of Cheddar, and a little punch from the Worcestershire and horseradish that takes it to the next level. And then there’s that coating—the poppy seeds, sesame, garlic, and onion make every bite a mix of textures and flavors that just works. Plus, it’s a cinch to assemble, and you can prep it ahead of time, which is a lifesaver when you’re busy. Honestly, it’s one of those appetizers that just feels like home, comfort, and good times shared.
What You Need To Make This Everything Bagel Cheese Ball Recipe?
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base that makes the cheese ball smooth and spreadable. Make sure it’s softened, so everything mixes up easily. Room-temperature cream cheese just blends better and gives that perfect texture.
White Cheddar Cheese: Adding shredded white Cheddar gives the cheese ball a bit of sharpness and extra flavor. It balances the richness of the cream cheese, so you get more of that cheesy taste. Go for freshly shredded if you can—it melts into the mixture so much better.
Green Onion: This brings a mild onion flavor and a little pop of color. It’s not too strong, but just enough to give a fresh flavor that cuts through the creaminess.
Horseradish: This is the secret ingredient for a little kick! It’s not overpowering, just enough to add a subtle tang. If you like a bit more zing, you can always add an extra dab.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a depth of flavor that’s almost savory-sweet. It’s one of those ingredients that you can’t quite put your finger on but makes everything taste better. A little goes a long way!
Hot Sauce: Just a splash of hot sauce gives the cheese ball a tiny bit of heat without making it spicy. It rounds out the flavors and keeps it from being too heavy. Adjust to taste, but don’t worry, it’s mild!
Everything Bagel Seasoning (Poppy Seeds, Sesame Seeds, Dried Minced Garlic, and Dried Minced Onion): This is what gives it that classic “everything bagel” taste and crunch. The poppy seeds and sesame seeds add a nice texture, while the dried garlic and onion give that savory punch that’s just so satisfying. This coating really pulls it all together and makes each bite interesting!
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Steps To Make Everything Bagel Cheese Ball:
Mix the Cheese Base: Start by tossing the softened cream cheese, shredded Cheddar, green onion, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and a little hot sauce into a medium bowl. Give it a good stir until everything’s blended and smooth. Then, cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for about an hour. This lets all the flavors get cozy together, so it’s worth the wait!
Make the Everything Coating: While the cheese is chilling, mix up your everything bagel seasoning. Just combine the poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion in a small bowl. This is what’s going to give the cheese ball that extra crunch and flavor that makes it so good.
Shape and Roll: After the cheese mixture has had a chance to chill, take it out and shape it into a nice ball with your hands (a little messy, but totally worth it). Roll it around in the seasoning mix, pressing gently so it sticks all over and coats the entire surface.
Serve and Enjoy: Place your cheese ball on a serving plate, surround it with bagel chips, veggies, or whatever you love to dip, and dig in! If you’re making it ahead of time, just keep it in the fridge—it’ll stay good for up to a week. Enjoy every bite!
Tip:
For the best flavor and texture, let the cheese ball chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving, but if you can, make it a day ahead! The flavors really deepen and meld together the longer it sits, giving you that perfect balance of creaminess with a hint of tang from the horseradish and Worcestershire sauce. Plus, letting the cheese ball firm up in the fridge makes it much easier to shape and coat in the everything seasoning. And here’s a little trick: if you find the coating isn’t sticking well, press it in with your hands just before serving. This helps all those yummy bits really hold onto the cheese ball, making every bite flavorful and crunchy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this cheese ball without horseradish?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of horseradish, you can leave it out or replace it with a little extra Worcestershire sauce for a bit more depth. The cheese ball will still be creamy, flavorful, and delicious without it.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Just wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option too. If it starts to soften, just give it a quick roll in some fresh seasoning before serving again.
Can I use pre-made everything bagel seasoning?
Yes, pre-made everything bagel seasoning works perfectly and can save you a little time! Just check the ingredient list to make sure it has poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion for that classic flavor.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Everything Bagel Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 c shredded white Cheddar cheese
- 1 green onion thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- Bagel chips or fresh veggies for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded white Cheddar, sliced green onion, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce until everything’s well combined. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to chill for at least an hour so the flavors can really blend.
- While the cheese mixture chills, stir together the poppy seeds, toasted sesame seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion in a small bowl—this will be the crunchy, flavorful coating.
- When the cheese mixture is firm, shape it into a ball and roll it around in the seasoning mix until it’s fully coated.
- Place on a serving plate with bagel chips or fresh veggies on the side, and you’re ready to dig in! If there are any leftovers, just wrap the cheese ball tightly and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
