Aja'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, cheesy appetizer with a crunchy pecan coating, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering rich flavors of cream cheese, Old English cheese, and Parmesan.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the crushed pecans in a mixing bowl and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in crushed pecans until evenly coated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you want a different flavor profile, consider adding diced jalapeños or herbs like chives or dill. You can also swap out the crushed pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred. This cheese ball can be made a day in advance for enhanced flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball alongside assorted crackers, fresh vegetables, or even slices of apple for a sweet contrast. It pairs beautifully with Giant Pretzels for a fun appetizer spread. You can also place it on a cheese board alongside other cheeses and charcuterie for a delightful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain the texture, it's best not to freeze the cheese ball, as the cream cheese may separate upon thawing. Simply take it out 30 minutes before serving to bring it back to room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aja'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 386 calories, with 16g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg per serving (27% 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, this cheese ball can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of Old English cheese?
If you can't find Old English cheese, you can substitute it with a sharp cheddar or a combination of cream cheese and your favorite cheese spread. This will give you a similar creamy texture and flavor, allowing the cheese ball to remain delicious and satisfying.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses cheese and no meat products. However, ensure that any additional ingredients, such as crackers or dips served alongside, are also vegetarian. You can explore vegetarian recipes for dips and sides to complement your cheese ball.
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).