Ham And Cheese Ball
Creamy and savory, this Ham and Cheese Ball features a blend of sharp cheese, deviled ham, and fresh onion, coated with crunchy chopped pecans. Perfect for parties or snacking, it offers rich flavors and a delightful texture that guests will enjoy as an appetizer or a party centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. cream cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. Kraft Cracker Barrel sharp cheese
- 2 tsp. grated fresh onion ⓘ
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. paprika ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1 (2 1/4 oz.) can deviled ham ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. parsley flakes
- 2 Tbsp. chopped pimentos ⓘ
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans ⓘ
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese in a large bowl.
- Add the shredded sharp cheese, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, dry mustard, paprika, salt, deviled ham, parsley flakes, and chopped pimentos to the cream cheese.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Chill the mixture until nearly firm.
- Shape the chilled mixture into a ball or log shape.
- Roll the shaped mixture in chopped pecans to coat thoroughly.
- Wrap the coated cheese ball in waxed paper or foil.
- Chill again until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing. You can substitute the sharp cheese with any flavorful cheese like cheddar or gouda if desired. If you want to spice it up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a twist, try incorporating herbs like dill or chives to complement the flavors. This cheese ball can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect addition to your next gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ham and cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It makes a great appetizer for gatherings, potlucks, or game day celebrations. Pair it with a refreshing fruit platter or a light salad to balance the richness. This dish can also complement hearty entrees like Baked Ham With Cherry Glaze.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to reheat it, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance the flavors. You can also serve it cold right out of the fridge, as it pairs well with crackers or fresh veggies.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Ball contains roughly 121 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1919mg per serving (83% 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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a healthier alternative. However, it may slightly alter the texture and creaminess of the cheese ball. For best results, allow it to soften completely before mixing with other ingredients.
How long can I keep the cheese ball in the fridge?
The cheese ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure it's wrapped well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors. If you're unsure, always check for any off smells or changes in texture before serving.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
This cheese ball pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments like crackers, pita chips, and fresh vegetable sticks. For a more substantial spread, consider adding cured meats or olives to the serving platter. It’s perfect for entertaining or as part of a festive appetizer table.
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).