Cheddar-Pecan Cheese Ball
A creamy, cheesy appetizer coated with crunchy pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering rich flavors of cheddar and a delightful nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring Cheddar cheese and cream cheese to room temperature.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat cheeses, sour cream, mustard and onion powder with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Coat the cheese ball with chopped pecans.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat cream cheese and let all ingredients reach room temperature before mixing. You can replace the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. Adjust the Dijon mustard to your taste for a milder or spicier flavor. For a unique twist, add herbs like chives or dill to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheddar-pecan cheese ball with an array of bread sticks or assorted crackers for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh vegetables or fruit for added crunch and freshness. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be accompanied by a glass of white wine or your favorite beverage.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. To serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar-Pecan Cheese Ball contains roughly 1993 calories, with 62g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (154% of the Daily Value), calcium (127% of the Daily Value), and protein (125% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2692mg per serving (117% 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
Is there a vegetarian-friendly version of this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! However, ensure all your ingredients, especially the cheese, are certified vegetarian. You can also explore using plant-based cream cheese for a vegan alternative, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
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).