A creamy and savory appetizer that’s always a hit at parties, this Salami & Cheddar Cheese Ball blends rich cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and bits of salty salami with green onion and a touch of mayo. It’s a no-bake, make-ahead snack that I love serving with crackers or fresh veggies—simple, quick, and full of bold flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 bunch green onions, finely chopped
¼ lb – ⅓ lb hard salami, diced small
3 tbsp mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
Directions
I start by adding the softened cream cheese to a large bowl (or use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment).
Then, I mix in the chopped green onions, diced salami, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, salt, and black pepper until everything is evenly incorporated.
I lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Then I place another sheet over the top and shape it into a ball—or sometimes I get creative and shape it into a log or holiday-themed mold.
Once shaped, I chill it in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes. This helps it firm up and lets the flavors meld together.
When ready to serve, I pair it with crackers, baguette slices, or an assortment of crunchy veggies.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20–30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: ~100 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the salami for pepperoni or chopped prosciutto for a different kind of savory bite.
For extra texture, I roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving.
Adding a few dashes of hot sauce or smoked paprika gives it a little kick that I really enjoy.
I’ve also mixed in finely diced pickles or roasted red peppers for a tangy twist.
If I want a lighter version, I use light cream cheese and reduce the mayo.
Storage/Reheating
I keep the cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I always make sure it’s well chilled before serving. This dish isn’t meant to be reheated—it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If I’m prepping ahead, I sometimes make it a day early to give the flavors even more time to come together.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make the cheese ball?
I like to make it up to 24 hours in advance. It gives the flavors time to meld, and the texture becomes firmer, making it easier to serve.
Can I freeze a cheese ball?
Technically, yes—I can freeze it for up to a month. But I prefer it fresh, as freezing can slightly change the texture of the cream cheese.
What should I roll the cheese ball in?
I usually leave it plain, but when I want to dress it up, I roll it in chopped nuts, parsley, crushed crackers, or more shredded cheese.
Can I make this without meat?
Absolutely. I’ve left out the salami before and it still tastes great. I sometimes substitute in chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an umami boost.
What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
I serve it chilled on a platter with a knife and surround it with a mix of crackers, toasted bread slices, and cut vegetables like celery, cucumber, and bell pepper strips.
Conclusion
This Savory Salami & Cheddar Cheese Ball is one of those recipes I keep in my back pocket for any gathering. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make ahead. I love how adaptable it is—and how it disappears quickly whenever I put it out. Whether I’m hosting a holiday party or just bringing a dish to a potluck, this cheese ball always delivers.
📖 Recipe:
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Savory Salami & Cheddar Cheese Ball
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
A creamy, savory, no-bake appetizer made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, chopped salami, and green onions. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday spreads, this cheese ball is easy to make ahead and serve with crackers or veggies.
Ingredients
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 bunch green onions, finely chopped
¼ lb – ⅓ lb hard salami, diced small
3 tbsp mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, add the softened cream cheese.
- Mix in the chopped green onions, diced salami, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and spoon the mixture onto it. Cover with another sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a ball, log, or mold.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes until firm.
- Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Swap salami for pepperoni or prosciutto for variety.
Roll in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
Add hot sauce or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Mix in diced pickles or roasted red peppers for a tangy twist.
Use light cream cheese and less mayo for a lighter version.
Store in the fridge, wrapped or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days.
Best served cold or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of cheese ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
