Harriet'S Cheese Ball
Harriet's Cheese Ball offers a creamy, nutty, and herb-infused appetizer perfect for entertaining, pairing well with crackers like Wheat Thins or Ritz for a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 1/4 cup nuts and 1/2 cup parsley.
- Combine remaining ingredients until well mixed with beater or with hands.
- Decide whether to make 1 large or 3 to 4 smaller cheese balls.
- Rip off an approximate number of sheets of aluminum foil and spread out on the counter with a piece of Saran Wrap on top of each.
- Divide the reserved nuts and parsley equally onto each Saran Wrap sheet.
- Divide the cheese mixture into portions corresponding to the number of cheese balls desired.
- Shape the cheese mixture into balls; roll each ball in the parsley and nut mixture.
- Wrap each cheese ball in Saran Wrap, then in foil, bringing the foil up to the top like a Hershey's Kiss.
- Freeze the wrapped cheese balls.
- Thaw before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, substitute half of the Velveeta with a sharper cheese like cheddar. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the taste. To make it more visually appealing, try rolling the balls in different colored herbs or spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Harriet's Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or slices of baguette for dipping. This dish pairs beautifully with Ursula's Candied Sweet Potatoes for a balanced appetizer spread. For a festive touch, consider adding some fruit preserves or honey on the side to complement the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cheese balls in the freezer for up to three months. Once wrapped, they can be placed in an airtight container or a resealable bag for added protection. To serve, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. They can be served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harriet'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 687 calories, with 24g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (100% of the Daily Value), potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% 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 a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with any creamy cheese like cream cheese or a cheese spread. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly, so choose a cheese that complements your taste preference.
How long can I keep these cheese balls in the freezer?
The cheese balls can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped in Saran Wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for the nuts if I have allergies?
If you're allergic to nuts, you can replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Alternatively, you can omit them entirely and roll the cheese balls in crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for added texture.
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).