Leslie'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, cheesy appetizer ball coated with crunchy pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, featuring rich flavors of cheddar, cream cheese, and seasoned with Worcestershire and onion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning salt until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat evenly.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like chives or dill. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the taste. This cheese ball can also be rolled in bacon bits for a savory twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Olive Garden Spinach & Artichoke Dip for a delightful appetizer spread. You can also offer fruit slices such as apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheese ball can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container to maintain its shape and prevent drying out. It’s best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Just take it out shortly before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leslie'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 1029 calories, with 44g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (96% of the Daily Value), protein (88% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1839mg per serving (80% 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! This cheese ball can be made a day or two in advance. Just prepare it as directed, roll it in pecans, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the texture and flavor slightly, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
How can I add more flavor to the cheese ball?
You can experiment with various spices and herbs to enhance the flavor. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the taste. Additionally, mixing in some crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños can add a delightful twist.
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).