Clam Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball infused with minced clams, perfect for spreading on crackers at parties or gatherings, offering rich flavors and a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy.
- Stir in the minced clams, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cover and chill for about 1 hour.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Roll the cheese ball in the Parmesan mixture until evenly coated.
- Cover and chill for several hours to allow flavors to blend.
- Garnish as desired.
- Serve with assorted crackers and refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. If you want a spicier kick, finely chopped jalapeños can be stirred in. For a vegetarian version, substitute the clams with finely chopped artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a fluffier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Clam Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Very Good Punch for a festive gathering. For a complete spread, consider adding a selection of cheeses and charcuterie alongside the cheese ball to create an inviting cheese board.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese may change. If you need to refresh the cheese ball, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Cheese Ball contains roughly 115 calories, with 12g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to a day in advance. Shape it, roll it in the Parmesan mixture, and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a convenient option for parties.
What can I serve with the Clam Cheese Ball?
The best accompaniments include a variety of crackers, fresh veggies like cucumbers and bell peppers, or slices of toasted bread. You can also offer a selection of olives or pickles for additional flavor contrast.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a smoked cheese for a unique twist. Just ensure the cheese complements the clam flavor without overpowering it.
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).