Philly Ball
Creamy, savory, and crowd-pleasing, the Philly Ball combines rich cream cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions into a delightful appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cream cheese. You can substitute bacon with chopped cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a tangier taste, try adding a splash of lemon juice or some chopped pickles. This recipe is easy to scale up for larger gatherings, making it a great addition to parties alongside Grandma Scolaro'S Thanksgiving Meat Stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. It pairs wonderfully with a fruit platter or alongside other appetizers like Peas Salad. For a festive touch, garnish with additional chopped green onions or bacon bits right before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball, as it may change consistency. When ready to serve again, simply take it out of the fridge and allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Philly Ball contains roughly 902 calories, with 29g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (86% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1715mg per serving (75% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Simply shape it and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with the Philly Ball?
This cheese ball is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dippers. Consider serving it with assorted crackers, fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery, or even sliced apples for a sweet contrast. It's a great centerpiece for any appetizer spread.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you're looking for a lighter option. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, and the flavor may not be as rich. Adjust the seasoning if necessary to enhance the taste.
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).