Georgia'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, nutty cheese ball with sweet pineapple and savory seasonings, perfect for parties, cheese platters, or holiday gatherings that appeal to a variety of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 1 cup of chopped nuts for rolling the cheese ball.
- Mix the remaining ingredients: cream cheese, chopped onion, seasoned salt, garlic salt, chopped green pepper, drained crushed pineapple, and the remaining nuts.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the reserved nuts to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the green pepper with finely chopped red bell pepper for a sweeter flavor. If you're short on nuts, you could use crushed pretzels for rolling instead, adding an interesting crunch. This cheese ball is a fantastic addition to any gathering, especially alongside classic American recipes like Paradise Cranberry Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or slices of baguette for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water. For a festive touch, include a platter of mixed olives and charcuterie to complement the flavors of the cheese ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its shape, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. For serving, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture, as the cream cheese will soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Georgia'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1782mg per serving (77% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Simply shape it and roll it in nuts, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and spreadability.
What can I substitute for the crushed pineapple?
If you prefer a less sweet option, you can substitute the crushed pineapple with finely chopped artichokes or even roasted red peppers. These alternatives will still provide moisture and flavor without the sweetness of pineapple, making it a great choice for those who want a more savory cheese ball.
Is this cheese ball suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cheese ball is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always check the labels of your ingredients like the cream cheese and seasonings to ensure they meet your dietary preferences. This makes it a perfect appetizer for vegetarian recipes at any gathering.
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).