Cheese Ball(Appetizer)
A creamy and crunchy cheese ball with pineapple, green pepper, and onion, coated in pecans. Perfect as a sweet and savory appetizer for gatherings and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Add drained crushed pineapple, chopped green pepper, minced onion, seasoned salt, and 1 cup of crushed pecans; mix well.
- Divide the mixture into two portions.
- Form each portion into a ball shape.
- Roll each cheese ball in the remaining crushed pecans to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes. For a spicier kick, finely chop some jalapeños and mix them in. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. This cheese ball can also be rolled in herbs or spices for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese balls with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or slices of baguette for dipping. They pair beautifully with Horseradish Dipping Sauce for an extra zing. Consider arranging a platter with assorted cheeses, meats, and fruits to create a festive appetizer spread. These cheese balls are perfect for holiday parties or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, they can be formed and coated in pecans, then wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. For best results, enjoy them cold, but you can let them sit out for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Ball(Appetizer) contains roughly 1931 calories, with 27g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 183g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls a day or two ahead of time. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes your party prep easier!
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a healthier alternative. However, the texture may be slightly less creamy, so ensure it's softened well before mixing. The overall flavor should still be delicious and satisfying.
What can I serve with the cheese balls?
These cheese balls are fantastic with a variety of accompaniments. Crusty bread, assorted crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots work wonderfully. You might also consider pairing them with a sweet spread, such as honey or fruit preserves, to balance the savory flavors.
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).