Ham And Chili Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball combining ham, cheddar, chilies, and walnuts, perfect for parties and gatherings, served with crackers for a spicy, cheesy appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine shredded Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, deviled ham, chopped scallions, and chopped green chilies.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped walnuts to coat evenly.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 1 hour.
- Remove from refrigerator to soften slightly before serving.
- Serve with crackers, adding Tabasco and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or swapping out the green chilies for a hotter variety. You can also use a different type of cheese like pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with Cheddar Bacon Rounds for a delightful appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham and Chili Cheese Ball with a variety of crackers, vegetables, or even toasted baguette slices. For an added flavor boost, consider providing hot sauce like Tabasco or Worcestershire sauce on the side. This dish makes a great appetizer for gatherings or game day, and it pairs well with American recipes like Loaded Nachos or a refreshing Easy Quick Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the cheese ball becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften it slightly. You can also freeze the cheese ball for up to a month; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Chili Cheese Ball contains roughly 593 calories, with 23g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% 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 up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste.
What can I substitute for the deviled ham?
If you're looking for a substitute for the deviled ham, you can use canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise or finely chopped cooked ham. You could also try using a spread like pimento cheese for a different flavor profile.
How long does the cheese ball need to chill?
The cheese ball should chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up properly. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can leave it to chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
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).