Everything Bagel Cheeseball Recipe

If you love a good savory appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up, you’re in for a treat with this Everything Bagel Cheeseball Recipe. I absolutely love how this cheeseball comes together with creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures all in one bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something a little special for snack time, this recipe is a fan-freaking-tastic crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients list might look short, but boy does it pack a punch! Each one plays a key role: the cream cheese and sour cream bring that creamy base, while horseradish and scallions add a little zing and freshness. The crunchy bacon and that Everything But the Bagel seasoning seal the deal with texture and flavor. When you’re shopping, I recommend picking a really sharp cheddar for that bold cheesy kick.

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat and softened cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds subtle tanginess and keeps the mix light and smooth.
• Prepared Horseradish: Gives a spicy punch — don’t be shy here, it’s the star of the show!
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Finely shredded for even distribution and melty-goodness in every bite.
• Scallions: Fresh and chopped finely for that mild onion brightness.
• Bacon: Cooked crisp and chopped into small bits — adds smoky crunch that everyone loves.
• Everything But the Bagel Seasoning Blend: The magic dust! You can buy it pre-made or make your own by blending onion flakes, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Bagel Chips and/or Crackers: Perfect for scooping, choose your favorite for serving.

Variations

This Everything Bagel Cheeseball Recipe is great as is, but I love to get creative depending on who I’m serving. Feel free to swap ingredients or add your own twist — it’s surprisingly flexible and always tasty.

• Make it Vegetarian: I’ve swapped the bacon for smoked paprika and toasted walnuts, and it’s still amazing — all the smoky texture without meat.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or a splash of cream cheese after mixing to make it ultra indulgent.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce in the mix for a little heat that wakes up your taste buds.
• Herb Boost: Try folding in fresh dill or chives for a garden-fresh twist that brightens the whole cheeseball.

How to Make Everything Bagel Cheeseball Recipe

Step 1: Mix Up the Creamy Goodness

Pop your softened cream cheese into a mixing bowl then add in the sour cream, prepared horseradish, shredded sharp cheddar, chopped scallions, and the crispy bacon bits. Use a spatula or your hands to combine everything well — you want a smooth, evenly mixed base. This step is where the magic of flavors begins, so get in there and make sure every ingredient is well incorporated!

Step 2: Chill and Shape the Cheeseball

Once mixed, form the cheesy mixture into a ball shape using your hands. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time helps the flavors marry and firms up the ball, so it’s easier to roll and serve without falling apart.

Step 3: Coat With Everything But the Bagel Seasoning

After chilling, unwrap your cheeseball and roll it generously in your Everything But the Bagel seasoning blend so it’s evenly coated all around. This seasoning blend is the flavor bomb that brings it all together — don’t be shy with this step! If you want to get fancy, I’ve even shaped mine like a mini pumpkin once and added a real or faux pumpkin stem on top, scoring gentle grooves with a knife for that festive look.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Bring out your bagel chips, crackers, or even fresh veggie sticks to serve with your cheeseball. I promise, once your guests dig in, you’ll hear the “oohs” and “ahhs” as everyone loves how creamy and flavorful it is. It’s perfect for a casual snack or as the centerpiece of your appetizer spread.

How to Serve Everything Bagel Cheeseball Recipe

Garnishes

I usually like to garnish the cheeseball with a few extra chopped scallions and even some extra everything seasoning on top for that punch of color and texture. Sometimes, for a bit of added flair, I add some mini pickles or olives on the side — they complement the tangy flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cheeseball pairs so well with crunchy bagel chips — you really can’t go wrong there. I also love serving it with crackers, sliced cucumbers, or colorful bell pepper strips for a refreshing crunch on the side. For a party, some fresh grapes and nuts complete the platter nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I’ve shaped the cheeseball into fun shapes like pumpkins, and sometimes I even mold it smaller for individual portions wrapped in parchment. It’s a fun way to impress guests without extra fuss. Wrapping the ball in a decorative bowl lined with fresh herbs also adds a festive touch on your appetizer table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your gathering, wrap any leftover cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. I keep mine in the fridge, and it usually stays fresh and tasty for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, so it can be even better the next day!

Freezing

While I haven’t tried freezing the whole cheeseball, I do freeze smaller portions of the cheesy mixture before forming the ball. This way, you can thaw it overnight in the fridge, then roll and coat with the seasoning fresh for best texture.

Reheating

This cheeseball is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you want softer cheese, just leave it out at room temp for 15-20 minutes before serving — it really brings out the flavors without losing that perfect spreadable texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Everything Bagel Cheeseball Recipe has won a permanent spot in my appetizers lineup because it’s so quick, flavorful, and just downright addictive. I remember the first time I made it, my friends were asking for seconds (and thirds!). It’s the kind of recipe you can trust to impress without stress, and I hope once you try it, it becomes one of your go-to favorites too. So go ahead, give it a whirl — you’re going to love it as much as I do!

Print