Meaty Cheese Ball
A savory, creamy cheese ball packed with ham and chicken flavors, perfect as an appetizer or party dip for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the deviled ham, chunky chicken, cream cheese, grated onion, pickle relish, mayonnaise, celery seed, and garlic salt in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.
- Season to taste with seasoned salt.
- Shape the mixture into a ball or desired shape.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. You can substitute the Underwood deviled ham with any other canned ham or finely chopped cooked ham if desired. For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meaty cheese ball with an array of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a charcuterie board or as an appetizer for gatherings. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Gayle's Potato Soup for a comforting meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the cheese ball becomes too soft after a few days, you can reshape it before serving. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream cheese; however, you can prepare it in advance and chill it until ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meaty Cheese Ball contains roughly 206 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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?
Absolutely! This meaty cheese ball can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare it, shape it, and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
What can I use instead of pickle relish?
If you're not a fan of pickle relish, you can substitute it with finely chopped dill pickles or even capers for a briny flavor. If you prefer a sweeter note, consider using a sweet pickle relish or even a dash of honey mustard.
How can I add more flavor to the cheese ball?
To enhance the flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or chives, or spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. Mixing in some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, can also add depth to the cheese ball's flavor profile.
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).