Cheese-Ham Ball
Cheese-Ham Ball is a delightful appetizer combining the sharpness of Cheddar cheese with the savory notes of deviled ham. It's rolled in pecans for a crunchy finish, making it perfect for parties or casual gatherings. This dish pairs wonderfully with an assortment of crackers, satisfying both cheese lovers and ham enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball and roll it in chopped pecans.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the deviled ham with finely chopped ham or chicken for a different flavor. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds work well too. Add a hint of heat with a dash of hot sauce if desired. This cheese-ham ball is great for parties, especially alongside Sloppy Joes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese-ham ball with a variety of crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit platter or light salads. For a complete spread, consider adding Creole Green Beans as a side dish to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese-ham ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy it again, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating, as it is best served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Ham Ball contains roughly 178 calories, with 8g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% 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-ham ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese-ham ball a day in advance. Just form it into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a substitute for cream cheese. This will alter the flavor slightly but will still provide a creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
This recipe is not suitable for vegetarians due to the inclusion of deviled ham. However, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or olives for 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).