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.
5.2ozBoursin garlic & herb cheese (or similar soft herbed cheese)
1cupshredded mozzarella cheese
1/2cupfinely grated Parmesan cheese
1cupRoma or cherry tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
3tbspsun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped
2tbspfresh basil, finely chopped
1–2tspbalsamic vinegar
1/2tspgarlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
1/4tspcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)
kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
FOR THE COATING:
1cuppanko breadcrumbs
2tbspbutter
2tbspsun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
2tbspfresh basil, finely chopped
FOR SERVING & GARNISH:
1/2cupdiced Roma or cherry tomatoes (for garnish)
2tbspfresh 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.