Deviled Ham And Cream Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball packed with deviled ham, Cheddar, green chilies, and pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings with crackers or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cream cheese, deviled ham, grated Cheddar cheese, chopped green chilies, chopped green onion, and pecan pieces.
- Shape into a ball or a log shape as desired.
- Serve with crackers or bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the deviled ham with regular ham mixed with mustard for a milder flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños instead of green chilies. This dish is a great appetizer, perfect for gatherings alongside recipes like Peggy O'S Baked Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It pairs well with a chilled white wine or a light beer, making it an excellent appetizer for parties or game days. Enhance your spread with other finger foods like the Easiest Green Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature before serving again, as it tastes best when slightly softened. Avoid freezing to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Ham And Cream Cheese Ball contains roughly 622 calories, with 25g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (54% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 852mg per serving (37% 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Shape it and cover it tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste for serving.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor, you can use sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels as a substitute for pecans. Both options add a nice crunch without overpowering the cheese mixture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the deviled ham and replace it with finely chopped olives or mushrooms for added flavor. You can also use smoked paprika to introduce a hint of smokiness without the meat.
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).