Fran'S Cheese Balls
Cheese balls with bold flavors and crunchy coatings make for a delightful appetizer. The combination of creamy cheeses, sharp Roquefort, and fresh herbs offers a rich, savory profile. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these cheese balls are easy to prepare and sure to impress guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Have all ingredients at room temperature.
- Place the Kraft Old English cheese, cream cheese, Roquefort cheese, and grated onion in a bowl and mash with a fork until well blended.
- Divide the mixture in half.
- Shape each half into a smooth ball.
- Roll one cheese ball in chopped parsley and chives, and the other in chopped pecans.
- Wrap each cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill for 2 to 3 days for best flavor.
- Before serving, let the cheese balls come to room temperature and serve with crackers or toast points.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure all cheeses are at room temperature before mixing. If you can't find Roquefort cheese, a blue cheese or gorgonzola can be a great substitute. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor if desired. For a different twist, try rolling the cheese balls in crushed nuts or herbs like dill instead of parsley and chives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese balls alongside an assortment of crackers or toast points for a delightful appetizer. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing contrast. They also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, complementing meats and fruits beautifully. Browse more American recipes for varied appetizer ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped cheese balls in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before enjoying. This ensures the flavors are at their best.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fran'S Cheese Balls contains roughly 495 calories, with 10g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 461mg per serving (20% 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 cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheese balls improve in flavor after chilling for a couple of days. Prepare them up to three days in advance, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just remember to let them thaw before serving.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor profile slightly and may require adjustments in seasoning. Ensure any alternative is at room temperature for easier mixing.
How do I enhance the flavor of the cheese balls?
To boost flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. Fresh herbs can also be mixed into the cheese blend for extra freshness. Experimenting with different types of cheese, like adding a bit of cheddar, can create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
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).