These little cheese balls are the sort of old-fashioned party bite that never stays on the table long. Around church suppers, holiday trays, and neighborhood gatherings across the South and Midwest, simple recipes like this have always had a place because they stretch a few pantry staples into something warm, rich, and irresistible. With just three ingredients, they bake up buttery, savory, and golden, making them a fine choice when you need something easy that still feels special.
Serve these buttery cheese balls warm on a platter with toothpicks or tucked into a bread basket alongside chili, vegetable soup, or a pot of ham and beans. They also fit right in on a snack table with sliced sausage, pickles, olives, and a dish of pepper jelly or honey mustard for dipping. For brunch, they pair nicely with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Southern 3-Ingredient Buttery Cheese Balls
Servings: 24 cheese balls
Ingredients
2 cups baking mix
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup melted butter
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a glass casserole dish or baking pan.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until a thick dough forms.
4. Scoop and roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch across, and place them in the prepared dish with a little space between each one.
5. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until puffed, golden brown, and crisp around the edges.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
Variations & Tips
Sharper Cheese Flavor: Use extra-sharp cheddar if you want a bolder bite. Freshly shredding the cheese yourself usually gives the best melt and texture.
Crispier Bottoms: Bake the cheese balls on a lightly greased metal baking sheet instead of a glass dish if you prefer a slightly firmer, crisper underside.
Make-Ahead Tip: Roll the dough into balls, cover, and refrigerate for several hours before baking. If baking straight from the refrigerator, add a minute or two to the cooking time.
Easy Serving Tip: These are best served warm, but they also hold nicely on a buffet table for casual gatherings. If needed, reheat them for a few minutes in a low oven to freshen them up.