Kitty'S Cheese Ball
A rich and savory cheese ball packed with chopped dried beef, pecans, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings, it offers a creamy texture contrasted by crunchy nuts and flavorful meat. Great served with assorted crackers, appealing to cheese lovers and party guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Mix all ingredients well: cream cheese, chopped dried beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped pecans.
- Roll the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat.
- Wrap in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. You can substitute the dried beef with chopped ham or turkey for a variation. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using low-fat cream cheese. Adding a splash of hot sauce can give the cheese ball a nice kick, complementing the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is best served chilled alongside an array of assorted crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted bread. For an elegant touch, you can include a selection of meats and cheeses to create a charcuterie board. It pairs beautifully with Creole Steak for a rich flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you plan to make the cheese ball ahead of time, it can be prepared and refrigerated for up to three days before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kitty'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 1317 calories, with 22g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 712mg per serving (31% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball up to three days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you prefer not to use dried beef, you can substitute it with chopped ham, turkey, or even crumbled bacon for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the alternative you choose complements the cream cheese and pecans.
How can I make this cheese ball spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture or mix in some finely chopped jalapeños. This will elevate the flavor and give it that extra kick, making it a delightful option for spicy food lovers.
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).