Print

Smoked Salmon Cheese Ball Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

This Smoked Salmon Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy goat cheese and cream cheese with smoky salmon, tangy horseradish, lemon zest, and savory Worcestershire sauce. Coated in flavorful Everything Bagel Seasoning and garnished with fresh chives, it's perfect for entertaining or special occasions. The cheese ball is easy to prepare and can be made ahead, then chilled for a smooth, creamy texture bursting with bold flavors.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Mixture

  • 5 ounces goat cheese, at room temperature
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 ounces smoked salmon
  • 1 tablespoon chives, minced

Coating

  • ¼ cup Everything Bagel Seasoning (use a low-sodium store-bought brand or assemble your own)

For Serving

  • Extra chopped chives (optional)
  • Bagel chips, crackers, or crudité

Instructions

  1. Make the cheese mixture: Place 5 ounces of goat cheese and 4 ounces of cream cheese in a mini prep food processor. Pulse until the mixture is combined, smooth, and creamy with no lumps remaining.
  2. Add flavorings: Add ½ teaspoon of lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of prepared horseradish, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. Pulse several times until all ingredients are well incorporated for a balanced and tangy flavor base.
  3. Incorporate smoked salmon: Add about half of the 2 ounces of smoked salmon to the cheese mixture in the processor. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps of salmon remain for an even texture.
  4. Mix in remaining salmon and chives: Transfer the salmon cheese mixture to a small bowl. Mince the remaining 1 ounce of smoked salmon and add it along with 1 tablespoon of minced chives to the bowl. Stir gently until all components are evenly combined to distribute texture and flavor throughout.
  5. Shape and chill the cheese ball: Line a small bowl (approximately 1 cup capacity) with plastic wrap, leaving extra wrap hanging over the edges. Transfer the cheese mixture into this bowl and wrap the plastic wrap over the top to form a ball. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 24 hours to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
  6. Coat the cheese ball: Spread ¼ cup of Everything Bagel Seasoning evenly in a shallow bowl. Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and place it into the seasoning. Carefully roll and turn the cheese ball until it is fully coated with the seasoning on all sides.
  7. Serve: Transfer the coated smoked salmon cheese ball to a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped chives if desired. Serve with bagel chips, crackers, or crudité for a tasty appetizer perfect for entertaining.

Notes

  • Make sure the goat cheese and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  • You can prepare the cheese ball up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavors and save time on serving day.
  • Use a mini food processor or blender for best results to get a creamy, lump-free mixture.
  • Choose a low-sodium Everything Bagel Seasoning or make your own to control salt content.
  • Serve chilled and consume within 2-3 days for freshness.