Anytime Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball infused with pineapple and green pepper, coated with chopped pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings seeking a sweet-savory appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and seasoning salt until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or chives. Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess moisture, which can make the cheese ball too soft.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh veggies, or sliced baguette. Consider serving it alongside a selection of meats and cheeses for a charcuterie board. For a festive touch, you can garnish it with fresh herbs or serve it with a fruit preserves. Explore more American recipes to complement your gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain its shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. For best flavor, serve it cold, but if you prefer, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anytime Cheese Ball contains roughly 997 calories, with 13g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. After shaping it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to roll it in pecans right before serving for the best texture.
Is there a way to make this cheese ball spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also replace the green pepper with a spicier variety, such as a banana pepper. Adjust the seasoning salt accordingly to balance the flavors.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese ball before it's rolled in pecans. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then roll in pecans before enjoying. However, the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).