Grandma'S Special Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball with herbs and nuts, perfect for entertaining or snacking. Its rich flavors and crunchy coating appeal to cheese lovers and party hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Ensure all cheeses are at room temperature.
- Blend the cream cheese, Old English cheese, Bleu or Roka cheese, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, and 1/4 cup chopped pecans until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the remaining 1/4 cup chopped parsley and 1/4 cup chopped pecans until evenly coated.
- Wrap the coated cheese ball in foil and refrigerate for several hours to set.
- Serve chilled with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften for at least an hour before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute the Bleu or Roka cheese with a softer cheese like goat cheese. You can also swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if desired. For a twist, consider adding a dash of hot sauce for some heat. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball chilled with an assortment of your favorite crackers or sliced vegetables for a delightful appetizer. It also makes a great addition to a charcuterie board. Pair it with a nice white wine or light beer for a refreshing combination. Consider serving alongside Ann'S Peach Cobbler for a sweet finish to your gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap any leftover cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to a month. To serve after freezing, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying it again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Special Cheese Ball contains roughly 574 calories, with 12g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 583mg 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it, coat it, and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings, ensuring you have one less dish to worry about on the day of your event.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with a variety of items. Try it with assorted crackers, fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast. For a complete spread, you can include some cured meats and olives to enhance the flavors.
Can I substitute the cheeses used in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you want a milder flavor, substitute the Bleu or Roka cheese with cream cheese or a soft cheese like goat cheese. You can also experiment with flavored cheeses or your favorite types to customize the taste to your liking. Just ensure you maintain the overall texture for the best results.
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).