Jay'S Cheese Ball
Creamy cheese balls packed with chopped cheeses, olives, and a hint of onion and garlic, perfect for parties, snacking, or entertaining guests with savory, nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well with both hands.
- Form into balls and roll in chopped pecans.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using a blend of cream cheese and cottage cheese. For added zest, you can substitute the chopped olives with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jay's Cheese Ball with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It makes a great addition to a cheese platter alongside fruits like grapes and apples. Consider pairing it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing sparkling water to complement the flavors. This dish also works well as a part of a larger spread for gatherings or parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can prepare it a day or two in advance. Just roll it in the chopped pecans just before serving for the best texture. For quick serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jay'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 532 calories, with 19g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1133mg per serving (49% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day or two before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. However, wait to roll it in the pecans until just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
What can I substitute for the olives?
If you're not a fan of olives, you can substitute them with finely chopped pickles or artichokes for a different flavor profile. You might also try adding fresh herbs like dill or chives to enhance the taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, Jay's Cheese Ball is suitable for vegetarian diets since it contains no meat products. Just ensure that your cheese and other ingredients are also labeled vegetarian if you're serving it to strict vegetarians.
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).