Bacon, Cheddar and Swiss Cheese Ball

Ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (about 12 strips), divided
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted, divided
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 jar (2 ounces) diced pimientos, drained
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Assorted crackers

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in shredded cheeses, 1/2 cup bacon, 1/4 cup pecans, onion, pimientos, pickle relish, salt and pepper. Refrigerate, covered, at least 1 hour.


2. In a small bowl, mix parsley, poppy seeds and remaining bacon and pecans. Spread half the parsley mixture on a large plate. Shape half the cheese mixture into a ball; roll in parsley mixture to coat evenly. Cover. Repeat. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Serve with crackers. Makes two cheese balls.