Grandma'S Herbed Cheese Ball
A creamy herbed cheese ball coated with lemon pepper, perfect for spreading on crackers. An easy appetizer with fresh herbs that appeals to cheese lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except lemon pepper, together in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape and cover it with lemon pepper.
- Wrap the cheese ball in wax paper and refrigerate until chilled.
- Serve with crackers such as Triscuits or your preferred choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Feel free to substitute the herbs based on your preferences or availability; for instance, thyme or oregano can be great alternatives. If you want a bit more kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. This herbed cheese ball can also be made ahead of time, making it ideal for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This herbed cheese ball pairs beautifully with Triscuits or your favorite crackers. Consider serving it alongside fresh vegetables like celery and bell peppers for a colorful platter. It’s also a hit at parties, making it a great appetizer option for gatherings. For a themed evening, serve it with drinks alongside other American recipes for a delightful snack spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheese ball will keep well for up to a week. To rehydrate, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving again, as this will enhance the flavors and make it easier to spread or enjoy with crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Herbed Cheese Ball contains roughly 364 calories, with 27g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (182% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 up to two days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in wax paper and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to coat it with lemon pepper right before serving for the best presentation.
What can I substitute for Philadelphia cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. For a dairy-free alternative, try a vegan cream cheese spread made from nuts or tofu, ensuring it has a similar consistency for easy mixing.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cheese ball?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few drops of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also experiment with finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra depth of flavor.
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).