Lisa'S Cheese Ball
A creamy cheese ball infused with pineapple, green pepper, and onion, coated with crunchy pecans—perfect for parties, cheese platters, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well, reserving 1/2 cup crushed pecans.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the ball in the reserved 1/2 cup pecans.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with finely chopped apples for a different flavor. If you're short on time, using pre-chopped vegetables can speed up preparation. Adding herbs like dill can enhance the taste even further. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with Cheese Zucchini Crisps (Good!) for a delightful appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an array of crackers, vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette for dipping. It makes for an excellent appetizer at parties, complementing festive meals or casual gatherings. For a complete spread, pair it with other appetizers like American recipes or even a light salad for balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its shape and texture, wrap it in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. There's no need to reheat this dish, as it's best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lisa'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 496 calories, with 7g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1987mg per serving (86% 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 prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Simply shape it, roll it in the pecans, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds are great substitutes. For a nut-free version, try rolling the cheese ball in herbs or crushed crackers for added texture without the nuts.
How do I serve this cheese ball at a party?
Place the cheese ball on a decorative platter and surround it with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, and breadsticks. Providing a variety of dipping options encourages guests to mingle and enjoy the flavors.
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).