Bacon & Smoked Gouda Cheese Ball (Nuts Optional)

8 oz cream cheese (room temperature )

1 1/2 cups smoked Gouda (grated)

10-15 grinds black pepper (use smallest setting on the grinder)

1 Tbsp. bacon crumbles (I used Kirkland pre-cooked)

1/2 tsp. minced chives

1/8 tsp. garlic powder

1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 cup bacon crumbles or chopped pecans