The Everything Bagel Cheese Ball is an absolute party game-changer, and I promise you’ll get asked for the recipe every single time you bring it out! This creamy, flavor-packed appetizer rolls all the classic “everything” bagel flavors into one irresistible, spreadable cheese ball, perfect for scooping up with your favorite crackers, bagel chips, or fresh veggies. Whether you’re prepping for a laid-back game night or decking out the holiday buffet, this showstopper will have guests hovering around the snack table, and you might never go back to plain old cheese plates again.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create something so crowd-pleasing! Each one adds something crucial: creamy tang, melty richness, vibrant color, fresh zing, or that signature everything bagel crunch on the outside.
- Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened): The luscious, creamy heart of the Everything Bagel Cheese Ball and what gives it its classic texture and decadent taste.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Brings sharpness and golden flecks, balancing out all that creaminess.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup): Adds melty stretch and a mild milky flavor, making the cheese ball extra smooth.
- Green Onions (3, finely chopped): For a pop of color and a mellow onion bite that brightens up every bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced or ½ tsp garlic powder): Cranks up the savory without overpowering, giving depth and that little kick we all love.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Just the right touch of heat to round out the cheese ball’s flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Infuses freshness and a pop of green throughout the mixture.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning (½ cup): The superstar coating for a burst of flavor and crunch; homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.
- Crackers, Bagel Chips, or Veggies (for serving): Scoop, dip, or spread—the choice is yours for endless serving possibilities.
How to Make
Step 1: Mix the Cheeses and Flavorings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, chopped green onions, garlic, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Use a sturdy spatula or hand mixer to blend everything together until it’s perfectly smooth and all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The colorful flecks and fresh aroma at this stage will already have your mouth watering.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Cheese Ball
Take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl, then gather all the cheesy goodness together and shape it into one large ball, or two smaller ones if you prefer individual servings. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap to keep the shape nice and round. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour—this helps the flavors meld together and makes the cheese ball firm enough for coating.
Step 3: Coat with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Once your cheese ball is nice and firm, unwrap it and roll it gently in a shallow bowl or on a plate filled with everything bagel seasoning. Press lightly so the seasoning sticks all over, making sure to cover every inch. This crunchy, garlicky, herby coat gives your Everything Bagel Cheese Ball its signature flavor punch and festive look.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your coated masterpiece onto a serving platter and surround it with an array of crackers, bagel chips, or sliced veggies. It’s officially party-ready! Slice, scoop, or spread—every bite delivers creamy, tangy, craveable flavor with that unmistakable everything bagel crunch.
How to Serve
Garnishes
Sprinkle the top with extra green onions, a handful of chopped parsley, or an additional dusting of everything bagel seasoning. Some folks even add a few sliced mini bagels or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra-special, photo-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
This cheese ball pairs perfectly with crunchy crudités like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. It also goes well with a side of pickles, olives, or a plate of fresh fruit to cut through the richness and add a little palate-cleansing refreshment.
Creative Ways to Present
Shape your Everything Bagel Cheese Ball into a ring around a small bowl of mustard or dip, roll it into mini bite-sized cheese balls on skewers for grab-and-go treats, or make a trio of smaller cheese balls with different coatings for a stunning appetizer board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers (a rare occurrence, honestly!), place the remaining cheese ball in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors only get bolder with a little extra time, so it’s a perfect next-day snack.
Freezing
While you technically can freeze a cheese ball, for best results, wrap it tightly—without the everything bagel seasoning—and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then roll in fresh seasoning before serving to maintain that glorious crunch.
Reheating
The Everything Bagel Cheese Ball is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply let it sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to bring out its fullest flavor and best spreadable texture.
FAQs
How far ahead can I make the Everything Bagel Cheese Ball?
You can mix and shape the cheese ball up to two days before your event. Just coat it in everything bagel seasoning shortly before serving to keep things fresh and crisp.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Stir some diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper right into the cheese mixture. It’ll add a gentle kick that complements the everything bagel flavors beautifully.
What’s the best way to transport the cheese ball to a party?
Wrap your Everything Bagel Cheese Ball securely in plastic wrap, then tuck it in a resealable container with a tight lid. Bring the crackers and garnishes separately and assemble everything once you arrive for the freshest presentation.
Can I use low-fat or dairy-free cream cheese?
You sure can. While full-fat cheese gives the best creamy texture, low-fat or dairy-free alternatives work just fine. The key is to let any alternative cheese soften properly before mixing.
Is homemade everything bagel seasoning difficult to make?
Not at all. Just combine poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and flaked salt in a bowl. You can tweak the blend to suit your taste if you want it more garlicky or onion-forward!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to win the appetizer table, pull out this Everything Bagel Cheese Ball recipe at your next gathering. It’s easy, endlessly adaptable, and a guaranteed hit with everyone you share it with. Take a bite, and you’ll see why this one’s destined to become your new party tradition!
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Everything Bagel Cheese Ball Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 large cheese ball (serves 8–10)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy, savory cheese ball is coated in everything bagel seasoning for the ultimate flavor-packed party appetizer. Serve it with crackers, bagel chips, or fresh veggies—it’s always a hit at holiday gatherings, game day, or any get-together.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Coating:
- ½ cup everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Crackers, bagel chips, or veggies, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, green onions, garlic, pepper, and parsley until well combined. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into a ball (or two smaller balls). Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Roll the chilled cheese ball in everything bagel seasoning until evenly coated. Press the seasoning onto the surface for full coverage.
- Place on a serving platter and surround with crackers, bagel chips, or veggies. Arrange the accompaniments attractively.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy the cheese ball with your favorite dippers!
Notes
- Make ahead: Cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance; add seasoning coating just before serving for best texture.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: No-Cook / Chill
- Cuisine: American