Gitmo Cheese Balls
Cheddar cheese balls wrapped around stuffed olives create a savory appetizer with creamy and cheesy flavors, perfect for parties or snacking with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the grated Cheddar cheese and softened butter.
- Add salt, sifted all-purpose flour, and paprika; mix well until combined.
- Drain the stuffed olives thoroughly.
- Wrap 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture around each olive to form a ball.
- Place the cheese-wrapped olives on a cookie sheet.
- Place the cookie sheet in the freezer until the cheese balls are frozen.
- Transfer the frozen cheese balls to a plastic bag and store in the freezer until ready to bake.
- When ready to serve, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the desired number of cheese balls on a cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme to the cheese mixture. If you want a spicier kick, swap out some of the cheddar for pepper jack cheese. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to wrap the cheese mixture tightly around the olives to prevent them from leaking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese balls warm as a delightful appetizer alongside a spicy dipping sauce or a tangy ranch dressing. They pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or crunchy vegetable platter. For a complete meal, consider serving them as a side to a comforting dish like Nina'S Baked Macaroni And Cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gitmo Cheese Balls contains roughly 82 calories, with 4g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even a blue cheese for added flavor. Just remember that the texture might vary depending on the cheese used.
Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls and freeze them before baking. This makes them perfect for party prep. Just remember to bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these cheese balls?
These cheese balls are versatile! Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, spicy mustard, or a creamy ranch. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board alongside meats, crackers, and other cheeses.
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).