Festive Ham And Cheese Spread
A creamy, savory ham and cheese spread with fresh parsley, perfect for a festive appetizer served with crackers or rye bread, appealing to cheese lovers and party guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, and dry onion soup mix until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped ham and shredded cheese.
- Form the mixture into a ball or spoon into a plastic wrap-lined mold.
- Roll in chopped parsley or sprinkle parsley on top.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream. You can also substitute the ham with turkey or chicken for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mixture. Serve this spread with crackers or fresh veggies for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
This festive ham and cheese spread is perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. Serve it alongside a selection of crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks. For a complete spread, pair it with Mom'S Barbecue or a refreshing salad. It also complements brunch dishes beautifully, such as a Brunch Ham And Broccoli Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy the spread again, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will soften the mixture and enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Festive Ham And Cheese Spread contains roughly 522 calories, with 26g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (61% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 663mg per serving (29% 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 spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spread can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the mixture, form it into a ball, and refrigerate. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it an excellent choice for entertaining.
What can I use instead of onion soup mix?
If you don't have onion soup mix on hand, you can create a homemade version by mixing dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and a touch of salt. This will mimic the flavor profile of the soup mix while keeping your spread delicious.
Is this spread gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this ham and cheese spread are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the crackers or bread you serve with it are also labeled gluten-free to maintain a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).