Linda'S Wonderful Cheese Ball
A creamy cheese ball with savory flavors from old English and pimento cheeses, coated with chopped pecans. Perfect for parties and served with crackers for a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften all the cheeses at room temperature.
- Mix all ingredients, except for the pecans.
- Chill the cheese mixture several hours or overnight.
- Take the mixture out and form it into a cheese ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or a bit of shredded cheese to the mixture. You can substitute the Kraft cheeses with any similar spreads, like a cheddar spread or a herbed cheese. Adjust garlic salt to taste, and try adding herbs like dill or chives for added flavor. This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with crackers and can even be served alongside Rice Krispy Trees for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball alongside an assortment of crackers, veggie sticks, or bread slices for a delightful appetizer. It also pairs well with fruit, such as grapes or apple slices, adding a fresh contrast. For a complete spread, include Marsha'S Cheesecake for dessert, creating a harmonious balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. It's best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda'S Wonderful Cheese Ball contains roughly 163 calories, with 9g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and calcium (16% 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 make this cheese ball a day or two in advance. Just prepare it, chill it, and roll it in the pecans right before serving. This will ensure it stays fresh and maintains its shape. Chilling overnight also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for alternatives to pecans, consider using walnuts, almonds, or even crushed crackers for a different texture. Each nut will impart its unique flavor, so choose one that complements the cheese mixture. Just make sure to chop them finely for even coverage.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cheese ball is suitable for vegetarians since it contains dairy products but no meat. However, always check the labels of the cheese spreads to ensure they don't contain any non-vegetarian rennet. This makes it a great choice for vegetarian recipes and gatherings.
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).