Deviled Pecan Balls
Deviled Pecan Balls are savory, creamy bites with a rich cheese and ham flavor, coated in crunchy pecans. Perfect for parties or as an appetizer, they combine a mix of cheeses, ham, and seasonings, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that appeal to a wide range of guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, and chunk ham in a mixing bowl.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, grated onion, salt, seasoned salt, paprika, dried parsley flakes, and Texas Pete sauce. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into two balls.
- Pat chopped pecans onto the outside of each ball to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the chunk ham with diced turkey or chicken if preferred. If you want more heat, increase the Texas Pete sauce. Adding a bit of garlic powder can also enhance the flavor profile. These deviled pecan balls pair wonderfully with a side of Broccoli Rice Salad(First Place Salads, 1994 Rice Contest) for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these deviled pecan balls as a delightful appetizer during gatherings or parties. They are perfect alongside a cheese platter or as part of a picnic spread. Consider pairing them with a refreshing salad or crunchy veggies. They also complement dishes like Kraft Macaroni Dinner for a fun, casual meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Pecan Balls contains roughly 1603 calories, with 64g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (133% of the Daily Value), protein (127% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 these deviled pecan balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape it into balls a day in advance. Just coat them with pecans right before serving to keep the texture fresh. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for alternatives to pecans, walnuts or almonds would work well to provide a similar crunch. For a nut-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs to coat the balls instead.
How do I make these vegetarian?
To make these deviled pecan balls vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You could also add some extra cheese for flavor and richness.
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).