Olive Stuffed Cheese Balls
Creamy cheese balls stuffed with olives, coated in a dough of bacon cheese spread and seasonings, then frozen and baked to crispy perfection—perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except olives.
- Using approximately 1 teaspoon of dough, wrap around an olive.
- Place the stuffed olives on a cookie sheet and freeze.
- Once frozen, store in a plastic bag.
- Take from freezer and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the cheese mixture. If you want a lighter version, use low-fat cheese spread instead of bacon cheese spread. To ensure the dough wraps easily, keep your margarine slightly softened. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought olives stuffed with cheese to speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these olive stuffed cheese balls as an appetizer at parties or game day gatherings. They pair beautifully with dilled potato salad with wurst or German red cabbage (sweet and sour) for a more substantial meal. Consider offering a dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy aioli, to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the freezer. They can last up to three months frozen. To reheat, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and golden brown. Avoid thawing them first to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive Stuffed Cheese Balls contains roughly 298 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% 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 spread?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheese spreads like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that different spreads may alter the texture and taste of the final product. Adjust seasoning accordingly to match the cheese you choose.
How do I know when the cheese balls are done baking?
The cheese balls are done when they are golden brown and slightly puffed up. You can also check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. If you're unsure, give them a few extra minutes in the oven, but keep an eye to prevent overcooking.
Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze the stuffed cheese balls ahead of time. Just follow the freezing instructions after wrapping them in the dough. When you're ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer for a tasty, quick appetizer.
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).