Bonnie'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball blending cream cheese, sharp cheddar, ham, and walnuts—perfect as a party appetizer for cheese lovers and those who enjoy rich, flavorful dips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together well.
- Chill the mixture until firm.
- Roll the chilled mixture into a ball and coat with crushed black walnuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother consistency, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute potted ham with canned chicken or tuna for a different flavor. If you prefer a different nut, pecans can be used instead of black walnuts. For extra zest, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bonnie's Cheese Ball as a delightful appetizer at parties or gatherings. It pairs beautifully with fresh vegetable sticks and assorted crackers. For a complete spread, consider offering it alongside Vickie'S Hamburger Vegetable Soup or Pantry Baked Beans for a hearty combination. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain the cheese ball's shape, keep it wrapped in plastic wrap. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat; simply serve it cold with your favorite crackers or vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bonnie'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 1879 calories, with 80g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 174g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (159% of the Daily Value), calcium (75% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% 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, you can prepare Bonnie's Cheese Ball a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients, shape it into a ball, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just roll it in crushed walnuts right before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
This cheese ball is fantastic with a variety of dippers. Try pairing it with whole grain crackers, pretzel crisps, or sliced baguette. Fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and bell peppers also complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
While you can freeze the cheese ball, it may affect the texture upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and be sure to coat it with walnuts just before serving.
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).