Dorothy'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, nutty cheese ball infused with pineapple and green pepper, perfect as a savory appetizer for parties and gatherings, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in drained pineapple, 1 cup chopped pecans, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and seasoning salt, then chill.
- Shape the mixture into balls.
- Roll the cheese balls in the remaining chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate until well chilled.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider substituting Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese. For added flavor, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh veggies, making it a versatile appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese balls with an assortment of crackers and fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful appetizer platter. They also make an excellent spread for sandwiches or wraps. For a delightful pairing, consider serving them alongside a fruit dip for apples, which balances the savory flavors of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain their shape, keep them wrapped in plastic wrap if possible. Reheat is not necessary; they are best served cold. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for a bit longer before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 1066 calories, with 18g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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! This cheese ball can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just shape it into balls and roll in pecans, then store in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer for gatherings.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. They will provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor. For a nut-free version, consider rolling the cheese balls in crushed crackers or seeds to maintain the desirable texture.
How can I customize the flavors in this cheese ball?
Feel free to get creative! You can add herbs like dill or chives for freshness. For a spicy kick, incorporate some hot sauce or diced jalapeños. You might also experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or blue cheese, to enhance the flavor profile.
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).