Sun Dried Tomato Cheese Balls

Elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Balls—a creamy, flavor-packed delight perfect for entertaining or snacking! This no-cook recipe combines tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar for a luscious texture and bold flavor. Coated in a crunchy walnut and chive crust, each bite offers the perfect balance of savory, zesty, and nutty notes. Ready in just 20 minutes, these cheese balls are easy to prep ahead and pair beautifully with crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted bread. Whether you're hosting a party or planning a cozy night in, this crowd-pleasing dish is the ultimate make-ahead appetizer.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 8 oz Cream cheese
• 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh basil leaves (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 cup Crushed walnuts (or pecans)
• 0.25 cup Chives (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil (optional, for softening sun-dried tomatoes)

Directions

Step 1

If using sun-dried tomatoes packed without oil, soak them in warm water or olive oil for 5 minutes to soften. Drain and chop finely.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese together until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 4

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up the mixture for easier handling.

Step 5

While the mixture chills, prepare the coating by combining the crushed walnuts and chopped chives in a shallow dish or on a plate.

Step 6

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and roll them between your hands to form smooth balls.

Step 7

Roll each cheese ball in the walnut and chive mixture until fully coated, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.

Step 8

Arrange the finished cheese balls on a serving plate, cover loosely, and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 9

Serve cold or at room temperature with crackers, vegetable sticks, or toast points for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(130.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	284.1

Total Fat 14.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1094.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 34.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.1g	0%
Total Sugars 20.0g
Protein 8.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 101.6mg	0%
Iron 4.7mg	0%
Potassium 1864.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.5%

Protein: 10.7%

Carbs: 45.8%