Mini Pimento Cheese Balls
Get ready to fall head over heels for these Mini Pimento Cheese Balls they’re creamy, tangy, a little smoky, and packed with Southern charm. These bite-sized delights are the perfect combination of cheesy goodness and a subtle peppery kick, making them an irresistible appetizer for any gathering (or a cheeky snack for yourself no judgment here!).
They’re fun, festive, and ridiculously easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a lunchbox, or looking for an easy make-ahead snack, these mini cheese balls are here to charm everyone. Picture smooth cream cheese blended with shredded cheddar, savory pimentos, and just the right amount of seasoning then rolled into adorable little balls and crusted in crunchy goodness. Trust me, they disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love Mini Pimento Cheese Balls
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or even on a charcuterie board. They’re perfect for any event.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Quick and Easy: Mix, roll, chill done! These come together in no time.
Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or different cheese blends to make them your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Mini Pimento Cheese Balls
These cheese balls come together with just a few pantry and fridge staples, yet they’re bursting with personality.
Cream Cheese: The rich and creamy base that holds everything together.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds that bold, cheesy punch we all crave.
Pimentos: The signature ingredient! These sweet, mild peppers give the cheese balls their iconic flavor and color.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Bring depth and warmth to every bite.
Salt & Pepper: To balance and enhance all those cheesy flavors.
Chopped Pecans or Crushed Pretzels (for coating): Roll your cheese balls in something crunchy for an extra textural treat.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness on the outside.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
No need to preheat anything here this recipe is no-bake and all chill. Just make sure your cream cheese is softened before you start.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly combined. The mixture should be thick and scoopable.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Assemble the Dish
Scoop small portions of the cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into balls with your hands. If it’s too sticky, lightly oil your palms or chill the mixture for 10 minutes.
Cook to Perfection
No cooking needed! Just roll the balls in your coating of choice—chopped pecans, crushed pretzels, or even everything bagel seasoning.
Finishing Touches
Arrange the cheese balls on your prepared tray and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve cold or at room temperature with crackers, sliced veggies, or skewered with toothpicks. They’re perfect for parties or anytime snacking.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 20 mini balls
Calories per serving: ~90
(Note: values may vary based on coating used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
How to Serve Mini Pimento Cheese Balls
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- With buttery crackers or toasted baguette slices
- Alongside celery sticks, cucumber rounds, or cherry tomatoes
- As part of a party platter with meats, nuts, and pickles
- Topped on mini biscuits for a fun Southern twist
- Skewered on toothpicks for easy finger food at gatherings
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Soften your cream cheese before mixing it makes blending easier
- Chill the cheese mixture before rolling for cleaner, firmer balls
- Make them up to 3 days ahead for stress-free entertaining
- Use smoked paprika or cayenne if you want a little heat
- Try goat cheese or white cheddar for a fun flavor variation
- Roll in toasted breadcrumbs for another crunchy twist
- Keep them chilled until ready to serve they hold their shape best cold
- Double the batch they go fast!
- Use gloves if you’re prepping for a party it keeps things neat
- Serve on a platter with small signs or flags for a cute touch
FAQ’s
1. Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes! They can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just keep them chilled until serving.
2. What can I use instead of pimentos?
Roasted red peppers or mild pickled peppers work great as a substitute.
3. Can I freeze these?
Not recommended. The texture changes once thawed best enjoyed fresh.
4. What should I roll them in?
Try crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, toasted breadcrumbs, or herbs.
5. Can I make a big cheese ball instead of minis?
Absolutely! Just shape the entire mixture into one large ball and coat it the same way.
6. How long will they last in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh for about 3–4 days in an airtight container.
7. What cheeses work best for this?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in pepper jack, gouda, or Monterey jack.
8. Can I make them spicy?
Yes add a dash of cayenne, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
9. Are they gluten-free?
Yes just be mindful of your coating (use gluten-free pretzels or nuts).
10. What crackers go best with these?
Butter crackers, Ritz, pita chips, or crostini are all delicious options.
Conclusion
Mini Pimento Cheese Balls are a playful, creamy, flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring a few with your afternoon snack plate, they bring a joyful, Southern-inspired flair to the table. Easy to make, easy to love, and hard to stop eating you’re definitely going to want to keep this recipe on repeat.
Print
Mini Pimento Cheese Balls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 20–24 mini balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini Pimento Cheese Balls are bite-sized, creamy, tangy snacks made with sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and pimentos, rolled in crunchy toppings. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday appetizers.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans, bacon bits, or parsley (for rolling)
- Pretzel sticks or toothpicks for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, pepper, and green onions until well combined.
- Cover and chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
- Roll each ball in your choice of chopped pecans, bacon bits, or parsley.
- Insert pretzel sticks or toothpicks into each ball for easy serving.
- Keep chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
- Mix and match coatings for variety and visual appeal.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Serve with crackers, veggie sticks, or on a cheese board.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheese ball
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pimento cheese, cheese balls, party appetizer, finger food, southern cheese spread