Party Cheese Ball(Yield: 5-Inch Ball)
A creamy, cheesy party favorite shaped into a ball with savory olives and herbs, perfect for gatherings and served with crackers or bread for a delightful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shredded Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, cooking sherry, Worcestershire sauce, onion salt, and celery salt in a mixing bowl.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Add chopped ripe olives to the cheese mixture and stir.
- Cover the mixture and chill until firm, about 1 hour.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a 5-inch ball.
- In a small bowl, combine minced fresh parsley and chopped pecans.
- Roll the cheese ball into the parsley and pecan mixture until evenly coated.
- Cover and chill again before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a healthier option. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as smoked Gouda or pepper jack, to add unique flavors. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This Party Cheese Ball is perfect for gatherings and goes well with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even sliced baguette. Consider pairing it with a refreshing dip like Lemon Chiffon Salad for a balanced spread. It's also a great accompaniment to wine, making it a fabulous choice for entertaining. Serve alongside Mary Knowles' No Bake Fruit Cake for a delightful dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best results, allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature before serving again, as this enhances the flavors and makes it easier to spread. Avoid freezing, as it can change the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Cheese Ball(Yield: 5-Inch Ball) contains roughly 172 calories, with 10g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 521mg per serving (23% 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 the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to roll it in the parsley and pecan mixture right before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use instead of ripe olives?
If you're not a fan of ripe olives, you can replace them with chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. These alternatives will still provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of the cheese, while adding a burst of color to your cheese ball.
How can I make this cheese ball more festive?
To make your cheese ball more festive, consider adding herbs like dill or chives for added flavor and color. You could also mold it into a themed shape for holidays or special occasions, or serve it with an array of colorful vegetable sticks and crackers to create an eye-catching platter.
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).