Creamy, Flavorful Green Onion Cheese Ball

This Green Onion Cheese Ball is creamy, savory, and full of just enough onion flavor that’ll have folks wanting to double dip.

Your New Favorite Cracker Spread

If there’s one appetizer that never feels out of place on a Southern snack table, it’s a good cheese ball. This recipe starts with room temperature cream cheese, which gives you that smooth, spreadable texture everyone expects. Sharp cheddar cheese adds depth and bite, while sour cream keeps the cream cheese mixture from feeling too heavy.

I’ve served some version of this at everything from casual family get-togethers to full-blown holiday parties, and it’s always a hit! It’s simple, familiar, and super flavorful, exactly what a perfect party appetizer should be.

Speaking of apps, you need to try this Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip. It’s another favorite of mine, and I’m certain you’ll love it, too!

Ingredients for green onion cheese ball or dip

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cream cheese, softened
White sharp cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Green onions, finely chopped
Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Helpful Tips for the Best Cheese Ball

Start with truly softened cream cheese. Cold cream cheese won’t mix smoothly and can leave small pieces throughout the bowl. Let it sit out until it’s easy to beat. This makes all the difference in texture.

Chop the green onions small. Finely chopped green onions distribute better throughout the cheese ball, so you get flavor in every bite without big onion chunks.

Let it chill. That 30–60 minute chill time is so important. It helps the flavors meld and firms the mixture just enough to hold its shape on a serving platter.

Adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is mixed, give it a quick taste. Depending on your cheddar, you might want a pinch more salt or black pepper.

Dipping a cracker into a bowl of green onion cheese ball/dip

How to Make Your Green Onion Cheese Ball

Step 1: Mix the Cheese Base

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Beating softened cream cheese in a bowl and mixing with shredded cheddar cheese

Step 2: Fold in the Green Onions

Stir in the finely chopped green onions until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture. Make sure the onions are well mixed so every bite has that fresh onion flavor.

Adding green onion to the beaten cream cheese mix

Step 3: Chill the Cheese Ball

Spoon the mixture into a shallow serving dish or onto a piece of plastic wrap if shaping into a ball. Smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and helps the cheese firm up slightly.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the top evenly with additional chopped green onions and finely chopped pecans or walnuts, if using. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes for the best texture and flavor.

A finished bowl of green onion cheese ball/dip

A spoonful of green onion cheese ball/dip

Serve with your favorite crackers, pretzels, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add Worcestershire sauce?

Absolutely. A teaspoon adds depth and a little umami without changing the classic flavor too much.

Can I use garlic salt instead of garlic powder?

You can, but reduce the added salt slightly so the cheese ball doesn’t become overly salty!

What are the best crackers to serve with this?

Buttery round crackers, wheat crackers, or sturdy favorites that won’t snap under pressure work best!

Is this good for game days and holiday parties?

Without question. This is a true crowd favorite and one of those recipes people always ask for before they leave.