Panfish Cheese Ball
A creamy, flavorful cheese ball made with flaked panfish, herbs, and cheese, perfect for spreading or serving as an appetizer at fish or seafood gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Chill for several hours and then form into a ball.
- Roll in shredded Cheddar cheese and chopped nuts.
- For best results, refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers or swapping the dill for fresh chives. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the horseradish. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. This cheese ball can be customized with different nuts like pecans or walnuts to suit your taste. If you're short on time, you can skip chilling and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Panfish Cheese Ball with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Camper'S Chowder(Quick And Easy) for a seafood-themed gathering. Adding a light salad or some fruit can also complement the dish nicely and balance the richness of the cheese ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball. If you want to serve it warm, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or gently microwave in short bursts, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Panfish Cheese Ball contains roughly 74 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1866mg per serving (81% 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 other types of fish instead of panfish?
Yes, you can substitute with other cooked, flaked fish like tuna or salmon for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the fish is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cheese ball.
How long should I chill the cheese ball?
Chill the cheese ball for at least 4 hours, but for the best flavor, refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe low-fat?
To create a lower-fat version, opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used for rolling. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
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).