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Perfect Football Charcuterie Board Recipe with Cheddar Footballs and Pepperoni for Game Day Snacks

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A festive and easy-to-assemble charcuterie board featuring cheddar shaped into footballs, pepperoni arranged like stadium seats, crackers, mustard, and olives. Perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or block for shaping
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • About 30 slices pepperoni
  • About 40 crackers (variety pack or favorite sturdy crackers)
  • 1 small jar Kalamata or green olives
  • Dijon mustard for drizzling or dipping
  • A few sprigs fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Mix the Cheddar and Cream Cheese (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, combine 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar with 4 oz softened cream cheese. Add 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp dried Italian herbs. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-incorporated. Refrigerate for 10 minutes if mixture feels too soft.
  2. Shape the Cheddar Footballs (15 minutes): Lay out plastic wrap or parchment paper. Scoop 2-3 tablespoons of cheese mixture and form into oval football shapes. Use fingers or a small knife to create laces by making shallow cuts across the top. Make 6-8 footballs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  3. Arrange the Pepperoni and Crackers (10 minutes): Arrange pepperoni slices on the serving board in a semi-circle or fan shape mimicking stadium seating. Place crackers nearby in neat stacks or clusters. Add small bowls for Dijon mustard and olives.
  4. Unwrap and Garnish the Footballs (5 minutes): Remove cheddar footballs from fridge and place evenly spaced on the board. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley over the board.
  5. Finishing Touches (5 minutes): Drizzle Dijon mustard near cheese balls or provide as a dip. Add extra olives or small pickles to fill gaps and create visual interest. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep cream cheese softened but not melting for best shaping. Wet hands with cold water to prevent sticking when shaping cheese balls. Chill cheese mixture before and after shaping for firmer footballs. Overlapping pepperoni slices slightly creates a nice layered effect. Cheese balls can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated. Use gluten-free crackers or dairy-free cheese for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: charcuterie board, game day snacks, cheddar footballs, pepperoni, easy appetizer, football party food, snack platter

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/perfect-football-charcuterie-board-recipe-with-cheddar-footballs-and-pepperoni-for-game-day-snacks/