A #1 Cheese Ball
A flavorful cheese ball combining sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and crunchy pecans or parsley, perfect for parties and gatherings as a savory appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shred the cheddar cheese while cold, then allow it to come to room temperature.
- Beat the shredded cheese with softened cream cheese until well blended.
- Add minced onion, green pepper, chopped pimientos, steak sauce, and chopped pecans or parsley to the cheese mixture and mix well.
- Chill the mixture until firm enough to handle.
- Form the chilled mixture into a ball and roll in chopped pecans or dried parsley.
- Best if made 24 hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you're short on time, use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheddar will have better flavor. You can substitute the pecans with chopped walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a gluten-free version. For added kick, consider mixing in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with homemade chili soup for a hearty appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer spread. It complements well with a simple fruit platter or paired with good and easy vegetable soup for a more filling snack. Consider adding a selection of dips like ranch or salsa to enhance the experience during your gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cheese ball for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bring it back to room temperature before serving to regain its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of A #1 Cheese Ball contains roughly 162 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, it's actually recommended to make this cheese ball 24 hours in advance so the flavors can meld together beautifully. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of green pepper?
If green pepper isn't to your taste, you can substitute it with finely chopped celery or even jalapeño for a spicy twist. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This cheese ball is already vegetarian-friendly, but to enhance its flavors without using meat-based sauces, consider adding smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for depth. This will keep it delicious and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).