Devilicious Game Ball
A savory cheese ball with deviled ham, sharp cheddar, and crunchy pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering rich flavors and a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine deviled ham, shredded Cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion.
- Shape the mixture into a football shape.
- Chill the shaped cheese ball in the refrigerator.
- Roll the chilled cheese ball in chopped pecans until evenly coated.
- Add pimento or string cheese for decoration if desired.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you don't have deviled ham, canned tuna or chicken can serve as delicious substitutes. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; a pepper jack adds a nice flavor twist. Make sure to chill the cheese ball thoroughly to help it hold its shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Devilicious Game Ball with an array of crunchy crackers, fresh vegetables, or pretzel sticks for dipping. Pair it with a refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea. This dish goes wonderfully with other party favorites, making it a great addition to any gathering, especially alongside recipes like Hamburger Cheese Macaroni With Manwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. If the cheese ball becomes too soft, you can place it back in the fridge for a bit before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Devilicious Game Ball contains roughly 331 calories, with 14g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball up to 24 hours in advance. Just shape it, chill it, and roll it in pecans right before serving to ensure it stays fresh and maintains its texture.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you prefer, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even finely chopped bacon for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the nuts are chopped finely enough for an even coating.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
No, this recipe contains deviled ham, which is a meat product. However, you can create a vegetarian version by replacing the deviled ham with mashed avocado or cream cheese mixed with herbs and spices for a similar texture.
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).