Plains Cheese Ball
A creamy cheese ball filled with sweet preserves, featuring savory cheddar, nuts, and a hint of spice—perfect as an appetizer for gatherings and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together grated Cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, finely chopped small onion, nuts, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Form the mixture into a ball with a well in the middle.
- Fill the well with strawberry or raspberry preserves.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the cheese mixture. For a lighter option, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne. When mixing, ensure the cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. This cheese ball can also be rolled in additional chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Sliced Fruit Bars for a sweet contrast. For a more substantial spread, include a Spinach Dip With Chopped Apple or a selection of cured meats to complement the rich flavors of the cheese ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If wrapped tightly, it can also be frozen for up to a month. To serve after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plains Cheese Ball contains roughly 869 calories, with 34g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (286% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (164% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 46g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! This cheese ball can be prepared a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for alternatives to mayonnaise, consider using plain Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a healthier or dairy-free option. This will still provide creaminess while changing the flavor profile slightly.
How can I add more flavor to the cheese ball?
Try incorporating different ingredients like diced jalapeños for heat, or herbs like dill and thyme for freshness. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cream cheese or blue cheese, for a richer 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).