Devilicious Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball bursting with flavors of ham, tomatoes, and green pepper, perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a delightful appetizer for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the deviled ham, softened cream cheese, and dry Ranch dressing mix.
- Add diced tomatoes and green pepper to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Refrigerate until the mixture is firm enough to handle.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in sunflower seeds until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using flavored cream cheese, such as garlic or herb. If you can't find Underwood deviled ham, any brand of deviled ham will work. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you're short on time, chill the mixture in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes instead of refrigerating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, or even sliced baguette. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Hillbilly Casserole for a hearty buffet spread. Consider adding a selection of dips or spreads on the side to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheese ball can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving again. However, this dish is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Devilicious Cheese Ball contains roughly 1741 calories, with 74g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 136g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (353% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (214% of the Daily Value), and protein (148% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it and roll it in sunflower seeds, then refrigerate it until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier.
What can I use instead of Ranch dressing mix?
If you don't have Ranch dressing mix, you can substitute with a blend of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. This will mimic the flavor profile and still provide a delicious taste to your cheese ball.
How can I make this cheese ball healthier?
To make a healthier version, use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of deviled ham. You can also add more veggies like finely chopped carrots or celery for added nutrition and crunch.
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).