Heather'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, cheesy appetizer ball packed with flavorful pimientos, green pepper, and onion, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a tangy and savory taste experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set cream cheese out until soft, then add to a bowl.
- Add all ingredients: cheddar cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, chopped onion, pimientos, and green pepper.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Shape into a ball and refrigerate until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of sharp and mild cheddar cheese. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add some finely chopped jalapeños. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Adjust the pimientos and green pepper quantities to taste for a more personalized flavor. This cheese ball is a great addition to any party spread alongside Mamaw'S Cranberry-Nut Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even sliced baguette for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate Chess for dessert, making it a well-rounded appetizer and dessert combo. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped herbs or serve on a platter with fruits like grapes and apple slices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. Re-chilling for an hour before serving will help regain its firm texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heather'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 485 calories, with 26g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (63% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% 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 and refrigerate until firm. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can substitute cheddar with other cheese varieties like gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. For a milder option, use Monterey Jack. Just ensure the texture is similar to maintain the integrity of the cheese ball.
How can I make this recipe low-fat?
To lower the fat content, use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese and a low-fat cheddar cheese. Additionally, you can increase the amount of vegetables like chopped onions or peppers to maintain flavor without adding extra calories.
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).