Cheese Balls With Olive
Cheese balls with green olives offer a savory, cheesy bite with a burst of flavor from the olives, perfect as an appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shredded Cheddar cheese and plain flour in a bowl.
- Add melted butter to the mixture and mix well.
- Form 1 teaspoon of the mixture around each green olive to shape into a ball.
- Place the cheese balls on a cookie sheet and chill for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the cheese balls for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding herbs like parsley or chives to the cheese mixture. If you don't have cheddar, a mix of mozzarella and parmesan works well. Make sure the butter is melted but not hot to avoid cooking the cheese. For a spicier kick, incorporate some cayenne pepper in your mix. These cheese balls can also be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese balls as a delightful appetizer at parties, paired with a tangy dipping sauce like marinara or ranch. They also complement a charcuterie board wonderfully, alongside olives and cured meats. For a full meal, consider serving them with Garlicky Mashed Potatoes and a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Balls With Olive contains roughly 240 calories, with 8g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (15% 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 use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the texture of the cheese balls.
Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls a day in advance. After forming them, chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. You can also freeze them before baking; just bake them straight from the freezer when you're ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with cheese balls?
These cheese balls pair beautifully with a variety of dips and sides. Try serving them with a zesty dipping sauce or alongside appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta. For a complete meal, they go well with a side of Tangy Orange Rice or a fresh garden salad.
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).