Maizie'S Christmas Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball packed with creamy cheese, chopped green onions, dried beef, and toasted pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the green onions and dried beef finely.
- Mix the chopped onions and dried beef thoroughly with the cream cheese.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans until evenly coated.
- Wrap the cheese ball and refrigerate for at least 3 days to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with your favorite crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have dried beef, try substituting with finely chopped ham or turkey for a different flavor. Adjust the amount of green onions to your taste; they can add a nice crunch without overwhelming the cheese ball. This dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for holiday gatherings alongside Beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is ideal for holiday parties and pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even sliced baguette. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a selection of meats and cheeses. It also makes a great appetizer before hearty dishes like Chili Con Carne A La Antigua(Guatemala) or a comforting Vegetable Beef And Barley Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you need to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. To serve after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maizie'S Christmas Cheese Ball contains roughly 1072 calories, with 20g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the cheese ball less creamy. Ensure it is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. The overall flavor will still be delicious, especially when combined with the other ingredients.
How long can I keep the cheese ball in the refrigerator?
The cheese ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s best to consume it within a few days for optimal freshness. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it’s time to discard it.
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few days in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve.
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).