Cheddar Cheese Ball
A rich and savory cheese ball combining creamy cream cheese with sharp cheddar, accented by fresh herbs and chopped scallions. Rolled in crunchy pecans, this appetizer is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a flavorful snack. Its tangy, nutty flavors appeal to cheese lovers and entertaining hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallion, chopped chives, chopped parsley, and dry mustard in a mixing bowl.
- Mix until well blended.
- Form the mixture into a ball.
- Wrap the cheese ball with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about one hour.
- Roll the chilled cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes for pecans. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also customize the herbs based on your preference, such as using dill or thyme instead of parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for parties and pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or slices of baguette. You can also serve it alongside your favorite dips or appetizers. For an added treat, consider pairing it with a refreshing Strawberry-Banana Salad to balance the richness. Garnish with additional herbs for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. To enjoy again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating, as it is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Cheese Ball contains roughly 236 calories, with 14g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (226% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (127% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g 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?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to two days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Rolling it in pecans should be done just before serving to maintain the crunchiness.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative. For a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese can be a good substitute, offering a similar texture with less fat.
How can I customize the flavors of the cheese ball?
You can customize the cheese ball by adding different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Experiment with various herbs and spices, or even mix in some dried fruits or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.
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).