Jean'S Cheese Balls
Creamy and savory cheese balls with a tangy blue cheese and dill flavor, perfect as an appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers and entertaining occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cream cheese, shredded Cheddar, milk, grated onion, and Worcestershire sauce in a food processor and process until creamy.
- Divide the mixture into three equal parts.
- Shape the first portion into a smooth ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped dill weed or lemon pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure all cheeses are at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have blue cheese, feta or goat cheese can be good substitutes. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. If rolling in pecans, toast them lightly for added depth, or use cashews for a different nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jean's Cheese Balls as a delightful appetizer alongside crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced baguette. They pair beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing cocktail. For a complete spread, include other finger foods like Party Tarts or Cranberry-Yogurt Parfaits for a colorful and varied platter that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain their shape and texture, wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. Cheese balls can be served cold, but if you prefer them softer, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Cheese Balls contains roughly 1050 calories, with 26g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1318mg per serving (57% 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 the cheese balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls a day ahead of time. Once shaped, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to roll them in your desired coating right before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of dill weed?
If you don't have dill weed, fresh chives or parsley make excellent alternatives. You can also try using Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with different herbs can give your cheese balls a unique twist.
How do I make these cheese balls spicier?
To add some heat, mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. Alternatively, roll the cheese balls in a spicy seasoning blend or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick that complements the creamy 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).