Garlic Cheese
A creamy, savory garlic cheese spread with pecans, perfect for crackers and served as an appetizer or snack with rich, nutty flavors and a hint of paprika.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind American cheese, garlic, and pecans in a food processor.
- Add room temperature cream cheese and blend until well combined.
- Make a roll with the mixture on wax paper, then sprinkle with paprika.
- Wrap the wax paper roll in aluminum foil and refrigerate.
- For best slicing, make the day before serving.
- Serve sliced on Ritz or HiHo crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before blending. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or gouda for a sharper flavor. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try using walnuts instead of pecans. Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference; roasting the garlic first can add a milder, sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Cheese pairs beautifully with Ritz or HiHo crackers and can be served alongside fresh vegetables like celery sticks or bell pepper slices for a crunchy contrast. Consider adding a selection of pickles or olives to your serving platter for additional flavors. It also makes a great addition to charcuterie boards.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap any leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To serve, slice cold from the fridge for cleaner cuts. If desired, let the cheese roll sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Cheese contains roughly 710 calories, with 19g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (156% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and iron (78% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 27g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, making this Garlic Cheese a day in advance is actually recommended for the flavors to meld together. Simply prepare it, roll it up, and refrigerate. The next day, it will be perfectly set and easy to slice.
What can I serve with Garlic Cheese?
Garlic Cheese is versatile and pairs well with various crackers, such as Ritz or HiHo. You can also serve it with fresh fruits like grapes or apple slices, and for a more substantial offering, add cured meats or a selection of olives.
Can I freeze Garlic Cheese?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Garlic Cheese. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before slicing. However, the texture may change slightly after freezing, so keep that in mind.
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).