Meg'S Cheese Ball
A rich, cheesy cheese ball with sharp cheddar and cream cheese, accented by onion and hot sauces, perfect for parties and snacking with nuts or herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt and stir the cheeses together.
- Add the finely chopped onion, Tabasco sauce, and hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- Chill until the mixture is firm enough to mold into a ball.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball and roll it into nuts, parsley flakes, or celery flakes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can experiment with the sharpness of the cheddar; a medium cheddar also works well if you prefer a milder flavor. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a bit of garlic powder or using flavored cream cheese. This cheese ball can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water. For a themed gathering, consider serving it alongside other American recipes like Real Southern Biscuits or Marinade (Great For Chicken And Spareribs) for a complete snack spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. It can be served cold, so there's no need to reheat. Just take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meg'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 322 calories, with 15g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% 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 use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or a creamier cheese like Gouda to change the flavor profile. Just keep the ratios similar to maintain the cheese ball's consistency.
How long does it take to chill the cheese ball?
Typically, it takes about 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator for the cheese ball to firm up enough to hold its shape. If you're short on time, you can place it in the freezer for 30 minutes, but be careful not to freeze it completely.
Can this cheese ball be made vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based cream cheese and a vegan cheese alternative. Look for options that melt well and have a similar texture to the cheeses in the original recipe for the best results.
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).