Mary'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball infused with dried beef, green pepper, and seasoned salt, perfect for entertaining or snacking with crackers and nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well in a blender.
- Shape into a ball and roll in chopped nuts.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and mix thoroughly in a blender. If you don’t have dried beef, consider using finely chopped ham or even bacon bits as an alternative. Adjust the seasoned salt to taste, especially if using salty ingredients like bacon. For a flavor twist, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce. This cheese ball pairs well with crackers and is a delightful appetizer alongside Beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary’s Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, vegetable sticks, or pita chips for a fun appetizer platter. You can enhance the presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This cheese ball also makes a great addition to a holiday spread or pairs beautifully with French Onion Soup (Vernon) for a cozy meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap if you prefer to keep it in its original shape. Reheat is not necessary, as this dish is served cold. Simply take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly for better spreadability.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 224 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1964mg per serving (85% 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 Mary’s Cheese Ball a day in advance. Just shape it into a ball, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. When ready to serve, roll it in the chopped nuts and serve with your choice of crackers.
What can I substitute for green pepper?
If you're not a fan of green pepper, you can substitute it with finely chopped celery for crunch or use diced jalapeño for a spicy kick. Another option is to use finely grated carrots for a touch of sweetness while maintaining a similar texture.
How can I make this cheese ball spicy?
To add some heat to Mary’s Cheese Ball, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cream cheese for a more intense flavor. Adjust the amount of seasoned salt according to your spice preference.
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).