Catherine'S Cheese Ball
Creamy and cheesy with a crunchy nut coating, this cheese ball is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering bold flavors and a delightful texture that guests will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Mix the cream cheese, grated sharp cheese, and dry dressing until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball or desired shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using softened cream cheese. You can substitute the sharp cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or gouda. If you're looking for a nut-free option, try rolling the cheese ball in crushed pretzels or seeds instead. This cheese ball is versatile and pairs beautifully with American recipes like Annie'S Macadamia Butter Cookies for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or bread for dipping. It makes a great appetizer for gatherings or parties. For a festive touch, you can pair it with Quick Rocky-Road Fudge as a sweet complement. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap any leftover cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to a week. If you need to serve it again, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to regain its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Catherine'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 1058 calories, with 42g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1027mg per serving (45% 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 the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, making the cheese ball a day in advance is ideal. It allows the flavors to meld together. Just prepare it, roll it in nuts, and refrigerate overnight. This will enhance the taste and make it perfect for serving on your special occasion.
What types of nuts work best for this recipe?
You can use any chopped nuts you prefer, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Each type of nut will give a different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment. If you're allergic to nuts, consider using crushed crackers or seeds for a similar crunch.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute without significantly altering the flavor. Just keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess slightly, so be sure to mix it well with the other ingredients for a smooth consistency.
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).