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Recipe 4f6c0dd7f7

Bruschetta Cheese Ball

A creamy, herby cheese ball inspired by Italian bruschetta—loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, a splash of balsamic, and finished with a golden, crunchy panko coating. Easy to make ahead and perfect with crostini, baguette slices, crackers, or crisp veggies.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American, Italian-Inspired
Servings 12 people
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 5.2 oz Boursin garlic & herb cheese (or similar soft herbed cheese)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Roma or cherry tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
  • 3 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 1–2 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • FOR THE COATING:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
  • FOR SERVING & GARNISH:
  • 1/2 cup diced Roma or cherry tomatoes (for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced (ribbons), for garnish
  • toasted baguette slices, crostini, or crackers
  • balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Boursin, mozzarella, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, garlic powder (or minced garlic), red pepper flakes if using, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
  • Fold in the seeded, finely diced tomatoes just until distributed. If tomatoes are very juicy, blot with a paper towel first to avoid thinning the mixture.
  • Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the mixture and shape into a tight ball. Refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours.
  • Meanwhile, make the coating: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring constantly, until golden and crisp, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cool completely.
  • Stir the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chopped basil into the cooled panko to make the coating.
  • Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and place it into the coating. Roll and gently press until the entire surface is evenly covered.
  • Transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with additional diced tomatoes and basil ribbons, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
  • Serve with toasted baguette slices, crostini, or crackers. For best texture, let the cheese ball stand at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1peopleCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 320mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword Bruschetta Cheese Ball, Cheese Ball Appetizer, Easy Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer, Make-Ahead, Party Food
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