Ham And Cheddar Ball
A savory cheese ball infused with ham, cheddar, and tangy Worcestershire, coated with chopped pecans, perfect for parties or snacking with crackers and fruit.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened cream cheese, Worcestershire, garlic powder, and Ranch dressing packet in a bowl and blend until smooth.
- Gradually fold in shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Gradually fold in chopped ham.
- Mold the mixture into a ball using a piece of plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat evenly.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill until firm.
- Serve with crackers and fruit.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the chopped ham with diced turkey or cooked bacon for a different flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Chopped walnuts or almonds can also replace pecans if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham And Cheddar Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh fruit, and vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer spread. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or can be enjoyed alongside dishes like Pork Loin Hash Casserole for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ham And Cheddar Ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will soften it slightly, making it easier to spread on crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheddar Ball contains roughly 333 calories, with 9g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Ham And Cheddar Ball one to two days in advance. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious experience.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a bit of vinegar for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, balsamic vinegar can also work in a pinch.
How long should I chill the cheese ball?
Chill the Ham And Cheddar Ball for at least 2 hours or until firm. This helps it hold its shape when serving. For best results, you can even leave it in the refrigerator overnight.
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).