Grandma'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, flavorful cheese ball packed with sharp cheese, chopped vegetables, and a hint of lemon, then coated in crunchy pecans. Perfect as an appetizer for parties or gatherings, appealing to cheese lovers and those who enjoy savory, textured snacks with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together well.
- Shape into a ball and refrigerate until firm.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the sharp cheese with cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses if desired. For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped herbs like chives or dill. This cheese ball also works well with sweet additions, such as a touch of honey or dried fruits if you're looking for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings, served with a variety of crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetable sticks. Pair it with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a light white wine. It also complements well with other appetizers, making it a great addition to a cheese platter alongside items like olives and sliced meats, or even as a starter for a meal featuring American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it before rolling in pecans. To serve after freezing, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and roll in pecans just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 438 calories, with 11g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% 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. Just shape it, refrigerate it, and roll in the pecans right before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes party prep easier.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce can be used as a substitute, although it will slightly alter the flavor. You could also mix a bit of vinegar with soy sauce for a closer flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cheese ball is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, always check the cheese and Worcestershire sauce labels to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).