Cheese Olive Balls (3 Day)
Cheese Olive Balls are savory, cheesy bites with stuffed olives, perfect as appetizers or party snacks, offering a delightful combination of creamy cheese and tangy olives.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the grated cheese set until soft.
- Mix the softened cheese with flour and red pepper sauce to taste, adding Worcestershire sauce.
- Press bits of the cheese mixture around each stuffed olive to form balls.
- Place the cheese-covered olives on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 400°F until golden brown.
- Serve hot with toothpicks. These freeze well and can be made ahead.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cheese is very soft before mixing with flour and sauces. If you're short on sharp cheese, a mix of cheddar and Gruyère works well. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper sauce. For a unique twist, consider adding herbs like dill or oregano to the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese olive balls hot as a savory snack or appetizer at parties. They pair beautifully with Cindy Hyatt's Cheese Fondue for a delightful cheese-themed gathering. Consider offering a side of spicy marinara sauce for dipping. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese olive balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. They can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Olive Balls (3 Day) contains roughly 132 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A.
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?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! While sharp cheese adds a nice flavor, a combination of mild and sharp cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar can create a delicious balance. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the right texture.
How can I make these cheese olive balls vegetarian?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it doesn't contain meat. However, always check the Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may contain anchovies. Opt for a vegetarian-friendly version to keep the dish fully vegetarian.
Can I prepare these cheese olive balls in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese mixture and coat the olives a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. They also freeze well, allowing you to make a larger batch ahead of time and bake them fresh when needed.
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).