Rich BLT Cheese Ball

This BLT cheese ball is made for those moments when you want a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in under an hour and tastes like everyone’s favorite sandwich. Creamy, savory, and packed with crispy bacon, this is the dish I whip up when company drops by or I want something special for game day. The best part is how delightfully simple it is—no oven, no fuss, just a few pantry staples and a quick chill before serving.

When I first made this for a family gathering, it vanished before I could even grab a cracker. Now my friends ask for it whenever they know I am in charge of the snacks.

Ingredients

• Softened cream cheese: gives the ball its creamy texture so use good-quality full-fat cream cheese
• BLT dip seasoning: brings in flavor and spice look for a mix with herbs and garlic or make your own with dried parsley and garlic powder
• Bacon bits: supply crispy smoky flavor crumbled freshly cooked bacon is my favorite but store-bought works well in a pinch

• Tips Select cream cheese that is not too soft for best shaping and only use bacon pieces that are extra crispy for great crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soften and Blend:

Let cream cheese come to room temperature for at least forty minutes so it is completely soft and easy to mix. Use a sturdy spoon or hand mixer to beat in the BLT dip seasoning until the mixture is smooth and fully combined scrape the bowl so no pockets remain

Shape It:

With clean hands or spatula scoop the mixture together into a rounded ball shape do not worry if it seems rough chilling will make it smoother

Bacon Coating:

Spread your bacon bits on a shallow plate now roll the cheese ball over the bacon gently pressing so the bits adhere all the way around turn and press until evenly coated

Chill to Set:

Place the bacon-covered ball onto a clean plate wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes until firm I often leave mine overnight as the flavors blend even better

Serve and Enjoy:

Unwrap the cheese ball arrange on a platter with plenty of crackers sliced baguette and crisp veggies let it sit fifteen minutes for easy spreading then dig in

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Whenever I use homemade bacon pieces I am reminded of my dad cooking extra crisp bacon on Saturday mornings the taste always brings back those warm cozy kitchen memories

Storage Tips

Wrap your BLT cheese ball tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container and it will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days The flavors actually meld more after a day or two making leftovers even better If the bacon on top loses crunch just sprinkle a few fresh pieces before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in light cream cheese or Neufchâtel for a lighter texture or blend in Greek yogurt for some tang If BLT dip seasoning is hard to find use a homemade blend of dried parsley onion powder garlic powder and a little black pepper Vegetarian guests might enjoy using sun-dried tomatoes or veggie bacon bits as a twist

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Serving Suggestions

This cheese ball pairs beautifully with water crackers wheat rounds thick pretzel crisps and slices of cucumber or celery For a true BLT feel offer halved cherry tomatoes or toasted baguette alongside so guests can layer every bite

Cultural and Historical Notes

Cheese balls became party classics in the mid-century home kitchen prized for their ease versatility and ability to feed a crowd The BLT twist is my favorite update on the retro appetizer table because it brings classic American flavors to every bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use light cream cheese for this cheese ball?

Yes, you can substitute light cream cheese or Neufchâtel, but the result will be softer and less firm than with full-fat cream cheese. For the best texture, allow your cream cheese to reach room temperature before blending.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives to bacon?

Absolutely! You can use bacon-flavored bits made from soy or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a smoky and savory result. Both options offer a tasty twist while preserving the BLT spirit.

→ What are the best dippers for a BLT cheese ball?

Serve with a variety of crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzel crisps, or fresh veggies such as cucumber rounds, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes for the perfect crunchy contrast.

→ Can I prepare this cheese ball in advance?

Yes! This appetizer can be made up to two days ahead. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until serving; add any fresh bacon topping just before serving for maximum crunch.

→ How long does the cheese ball keep?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, your cheese ball stays fresh for up to five days. Flavors often improve after a day as they meld together.

→ What’s the best way to avoid lumps in the cheese mixture?

Make sure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free texture when combined with other ingredients.