Crunchy Cheese Ball
This Crunchy Cheese Ball is a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors, featuring rich cream cheese, tangy mayonnaise, and ground ham, all rolled in a crunchy nut coating. Perfect for parties or gatherings, it pairs wonderfully with crackers for a satisfying bite that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Stir in ground cooked ham, chopped parsley, minced onion, dry mustard, and hot sauce.
- Cover and chill several hours.
- Form into a ball and roll in chopped nuts to coat.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is very soft before mixing. If you want to reduce calories, consider using low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also swap out the nuts for seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Experiment with different herbs, like dill or chives, for added flavor. This recipe is a great addition to any party platter alongside Savory Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crunchy cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggie sticks, or sliced baguette. It also pairs wonderfully with a fruit platter for a sweet contrast. For a complete spread, consider serving it alongside Cauliflower Salad or Corn Okra Casserole to balance the flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for gatherings and holiday parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. It's best served cold, so there's no need to reheat. Simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Cheese Ball contains roughly 336 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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 ball ahead of time?
Yes! The cheese ball can be prepared a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld together. Simply chill it in the refrigerator, then roll it in nuts just before serving to keep the coating crispy.
What can I use instead of ground cooked ham?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute the ground cooked ham with crumbled bacon, or even a plant-based protein like finely chopped mushrooms or jackfruit for a vegetarian option.
How long does the cheese ball last in the fridge?
The cheese ball will last in the refrigerator for about a week. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
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).