Cheese Pecan Ball
A creamy cheese ball infused with sharp cheese, fresh parsley, and crunchy pecans, perfect for entertaining or as a savory appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese, grated sharp cheese, and grated onion by hand until well combined.
- Add salt, a dash of red pepper, 1/2 cup chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup chopped pecans; mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the remaining chopped parsley and chopped pecans to coat evenly.
- Repeat to make additional cheese balls if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the sharp cheese with a milder variety if desired, or even use a blend of cheeses for more depth. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can replace parsley for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for healthier options, consider using low-fat cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese pecan ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or slices of baguette for dipping. It pairs beautifully with fruit platters and can be a great addition to a charcuterie board. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with homemade play doh for kids' parties or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese pecan ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, it can last longer. To serve, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying, as this enhances the flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Pecan Ball contains roughly 730 calories, with 34g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (349% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (123% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2942mg per serving (128% 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 pecan ball in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese pecan ball a day ahead. Just shape it, coat it with parsley and pecans, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for alternatives to pecans, walnuts or almonds work well too. You can also omit the nuts for a nut-free version, or even use seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch while keeping it allergen-friendly.
How can I spice it up?
To add some heat, consider increasing the amount of red pepper or incorporating a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. You could also mix in diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers for an extra kick, making it a zesty appetizer perfect for gatherings.
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).