German Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball featuring tangy sauerkraut, sharp cheddar, and crunchy vegetables, perfect as an appetizer or party snack that appeals to cheese lovers and fans of flavorful bites.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups sauerkraut ⓘ
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon sugar ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped pimento ⓘ
- 2 cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Drain the sauerkraut and squeeze out any excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained sauerkraut, mayonnaise, chopped hard-boiled egg, sugar, chopped green pepper, salt, bread crumbs, chopped onion, chopped pimento, and grated sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf or ball form.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or cream cheese. If you want to reduce the tanginess, use less sauerkraut or substitute with finely chopped cooked cabbage. You can also experiment by adding herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover bread crumbs, making it a versatile option for minimizing food waste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the German Cheese Ball as an appetizer with assorted crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette. It pairs wonderfully with a tangy mustard dip or a refreshing herbaceous dip. For a complete spread, consider including some pickled vegetables or a charcuterie selection. This dish complements well with hearty beers or crisp white wines.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball, as it may alter the consistency of the cheeses. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly before slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Cheese Ball contains roughly 837 calories, with 15g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2651mg per serving (115% 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, the German Cheese Ball can be prepared a day in advance. After shaping it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to take it out about 30 minutes before serving for easy slicing.
What can I substitute for the sharp Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor profile, you can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese. For a vegan option, consider using a plant-based cream cheese and a vegan cheese alternative to maintain the texture while accommodating dietary preferences.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese ball mixture. Alternatively, you can incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or serve it alongside a spicy dipping sauce. Adjust the spiciness according to your taste preferences for the perfect kick!
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).