Brenda'S Cheese Ball
Brenda's Cheese Ball is a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy cheese, chopped beef, fresh green onions, and a variety of olives, all coated with chopped nuts. Perfect for parties and gatherings, this flavorful cheese ball offers a delightful mix of textures and bold tastes that guests will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the room temperature cream cheese until smooth.
- Add chopped beef, chopped green onions, and desired amount of chopped olives.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball into chopped nuts.
- Place on a serving dish and serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want to add more flavor, consider incorporating spices like garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. For a twist, substitute the chopped beef with diced ham or crumbled bacon. You can also replace the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version. Serve with a variety of crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Brenda's Cheese Ball alongside an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a light beer. For an extra touch, consider adding a fruit platter or some pickles on the side to complement the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its shape and flavor, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. Reheat by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, as this will help restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brenda'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 286 calories, with 7g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 3g 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 or two in advance. Just shape it and roll it in the nuts, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even tastier dish.
What types of olives work best in this recipe?
Both black and green olives add distinct flavors; however, using pitted Kalamata olives can provide a richer taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for green olives. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference, ensuring to chop them finely for even distribution.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese ball for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing it to come back to room temperature for the best texture.
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).