Pineapple Cheese Ball(Makes 1 Large Cheese Ball)
A creamy, sweet and savory cheese ball coated with crunchy pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, combining pineapple, cream cheese, and flavorful seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, 1 cup of chopped pecans, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and seasoned salt together.
- Shape the mixture into a large ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the remaining pecans, coating evenly.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute walnuts for pecans if desired. For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you want a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños to the mixture. This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings and can be shaped into smaller balls for easy serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pineapple cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even slices of bread for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Nice 'N' Cheesy for a fun cheese platter. Consider adding some tropical fruit like mango or kiwi on the side for a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball, as it may become grainy upon thawing. When ready to serve again, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cheese Ball(Makes 1 Large Cheese Ball) contains roughly 427 calories, with 8g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day ahead of time. Just shape it and roll it in the pecans, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve at your event.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly, so be sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the outside before rolling in the pecans for an extra kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
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).