Nana'S Zesty Cheese Ball
A creamy, tangy cheese ball coated with parsley and packed with American and cream cheeses, perfect for holiday gatherings and spreading with crackers or slicing for serving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Dice the sliced American cheeses very fine.
- Mix all ingredients together with hands until thoroughly blended.
- Shape into one large ball or divide into two smaller balls.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Cover a sheet of waxed paper with chopped parsley.
- Roll the cheese ball(s) in parsley until well covered.
- Dampen and wring almost dry a white paper towel.
- Cover the cheese ball with the towel, then wrap with a double layer of aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate until firm.
- When ready to serve, place on a cheese board and slice.
- Serve with a variety of crackers.
- The cheese ball will last for several weeks, and the taste improves with age.
- Makes a great holiday gift for friends.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, consider substituting the sharp American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack. You can also add fresh herbs like chives or dill for added zest. If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers, breadsticks, or vegetable sticks for dipping. For a festive touch, serve it on a cheese board alongside fruits like grapes or apples. You can also include sweet treats like M&M'S Pizza as a fun contrast to the savory flavors. It makes an excellent appetizer for holiday gatherings or parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks. There’s no need to reheat this dish, as it’s best served cold or at room temperature. Just remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Zesty Cheese Ball contains roughly 133 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1449mg per serving (63% 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?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just follow the instructions and refrigerate the cheese ball overnight. It will taste even better the next day, making it a great option for stress-free entertaining.
What can I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can mix soy sauce with a little lemon juice as a substitute. This will provide a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, you can use a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick, which can complement the cheese well.
Is this cheese ball suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cheese ball is suitable for vegetarians as it primarily consists of cheese and nuts. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands may contain anchovies. There are several vegetarian recipes available that include similar flavor profiles if you're looking for more options.
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).