Gourmet Cheese Ball
A rich, creamy cheese ball combining blue cheese, cheddar, and herbs, perfect for entertaining and pairing with assorted crackers for a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the blue cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, Worcestershire, cream cheese, and grated onion together until well combined.
- Shape into a ball or desired shape and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Serve chilled with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider using a mix of herbs like dill or chives instead of parsley. If you prefer a milder cheese, substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese. For a nut-free option, you can roll the cheese ball in finely chopped herbs or seeds. Make sure all the cheeses are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this gourmet cheese ball with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for a colorful platter. It pairs beautifully with a light wine or sparkling water. For a festive touch, consider adding fruit spreads or jams on the side for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing it, as this can alter the creamy consistency. Simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gourmet Cheese Ball contains roughly 793 calories, with 29g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), potassium (75% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% 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 the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. After shaping it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, making it taste even better when served.
What kinds of nuts work best for this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are excellent choices due to their rich flavor and texture. However, feel free to use your favorite nuts or even a mix. Just ensure they are finely chopped for even coating.
How can I adjust the spices to suit my taste?
You can easily adjust the seasoning by adding more Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor or including garlic powder for an extra kick. Experimenting with different herbs can also tailor the taste to your liking.
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).