Meat Ball
Creamy, savory meat balls made with braunschweiger and cream cheese, perfect for spreading on crackers or serving as a party appetizer with optional chives or nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the braunschweiger, chili sauce, mayonnaise, and garlic salt together and form into a ball.
- Spread the cream cheese over the sides of the meat ball.
- Roll the meat ball in chopped chives or nuts (optional).
- Serve spread on crackers and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the braunschweiger mixture until well combined before forming it into a ball. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the chili sauce with BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile or use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. This meat ball can also be shaped into smaller bites for easy serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad for a light meal or can be enjoyed as a party snack. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing dip or a platter of olives and pickles to enhance the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain its texture, avoid freezing it, as cream cheese may change consistency when thawed. To enjoy, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving again, or reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Ball contains roughly 537 calories, with 6g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (148% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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 meat ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat ball a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just remember to spread the cream cheese topping just before serving for the freshest taste.
What can I substitute for braunschweiger?
If you're looking for a substitute for braunschweiger, consider using liverwurst or pâté, as they have similar textures and flavors. For a vegetarian option, you could try using a bean-based spread mixed with spices to mimic the savory taste. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
How do I enhance the flavor of the meat ball?
To enhance the flavor of the meat ball, try adding herbs such as dill or parsley into the mixture before forming the ball. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the flavor. Additionally, for a gourmet touch, consider rolling it in finely chopped nuts or herbs for an added crunch and visual appeal.
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).