Cheese Round
A savory cheese ball with sharp and mild cheddar flavors, complemented by onion, red pepper, pecans, and a sweet strawberry preserves center, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the grated sharp cheddar, grated mild cheddar, grated onion, ground red pepper, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans into the cheese mixture.
- Grease a bundt pan and spread the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans in the bottom.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the pecans in the pan.
- Refrigerate the cheese mixture in the pan overnight to allow flavors to blend.
- When ready to serve, turn the cheese mixture onto a platter.
- Make a well in the center and spoon strawberry preserves into it.
- Serve with your favorite crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the mixture. If you want to reduce calories, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute. Adding herbs like dill or chives can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to refrigerate the mixture overnight, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to other American recipes that require chilling.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese round is excellent served with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetables. Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy it alongside a fruit platter to balance the richness of the cheese. For a delightful dessert experience, consider serving it after dishes like Peach Cheese Pie for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cheese round can be kept well, but avoid freezing it, as the texture may change. To serve leftovers, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying it again to restore some of its original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Round contains roughly 685 calories, with 24g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (341% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1035mg per serving (45% 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 sharp and mild cheddar provide a great balance, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gouda or Monterey Jack for varied flavors. Just be mindful of the melting properties, as some cheeses may alter the final texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of ground red pepper or include finely chopped jalapeños. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for an extra kick without changing the overall consistency.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can easily substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative such as vegan mayonnaise or even Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Both will maintain the creaminess needed for the cheese round without compromising its 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).