Print

Easy Football Charcuterie Board with Pretzel & Cheese Dip

football charcuterie board - featured image

A game-day snack board featuring warm cheese dip, soft pretzels, cured meats, and pickles that lets you enjoy the game without missing a play. Comes together in under 20 minutes and is perfect for football gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound soft pretzels (about 68 large)
  • 8 ounces sliced salami (Genoa or hard salami)
  • 6 ounces prosciutto, torn into pieces
  • 4 ounces sharp white cheddar, sliced into thin wedges
  • 4 ounces gouda, sliced
  • 1 cup cornichons or small dill pickles
  • 1/2 cup whole grain mustard
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 cup mixed olives (green and kalamata)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Add the milk slowly, stirring constantly, until the dip reaches a pourable consistency. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over the lowest heat setting, stirring occasionally.
  2. If using store-bought soft pretzels, warm them according to package directions (typically 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes). If using homemade pretzels, bake them fresh and let cool slightly before adding to the board.
  3. Place the warm cheese dip in a small bowl or ramekin near the center of the board. Arrange the warm pretzels around the dip, fanning them out slightly. Place the salami and prosciutto in small piles on opposite sides. Fan out the sliced cheddar and gouda in small clusters. Fill small bowls with the cornichons, whole grain mustard, honey, and olives, and place them in the gaps. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the edges. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if using.
  4. Serve immediately. The board is best enjoyed within 30 minutes of assembly. For longer serving, transfer the dip to a small slow cooker set to warm.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for the dip to avoid graininess. Do not overheat the cheese dip; use medium-low heat and stir constantly. Warm the pretzels before serving for best texture. The dip can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: football charcuterie board, pretzel cheese dip, game day snack, easy appetizer, party board