Port Wine Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball infused with port wine, green peppers, pimentos, and a hint of Worcestershire, then rolled in crunchy pecans. Perfect for parties and entertaining, its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a crowd-pleasing appetizer that pairs well with crackers and fresh bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine port wine cold pack cheese food, softened cream cheese, and 2 tablespoons margarine; mix until well blended.
- Add chopped pimento, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice; mix well.
- Mold the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in crushed pecans.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have port wine cheese, substitute with a sharp cheddar and a splash of port wine. Add more herbs like chives or parsley for an extra flavor boost. Using fresh ingredients, such as freshly chopped onions and peppers, will enhance the overall taste. This cheese ball can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Port Wine Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, veggie sticks, or even apple slices for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Mrs. Beck'S Brunswick Stew for a hearty meal or as part of a charcuterie board. Consider adding a small bowl of honey or a fruit chutney on the side to complement the rich flavors of the cheese ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to meld over time, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing as the texture may change once thawed. When ready to serve again, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for optimal flavor and spreadability.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Port Wine Cheese Ball contains roughly 1032 calories, with 48g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (97% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2575mg per serving (112% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the port wine cheese with any sharp cheese like cheddar or gouda, adding a splash of port wine for flavor. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly.
How long can I keep the cheese ball in the fridge?
The cheese ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
The cheese ball is versatile and pairs well with various items like crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables. For an elegant touch, serve it alongside fruits such as grapes or apple slices, which provide a nice contrast to the rich, savory flavors. Consider browsing more vegetarian recipes for additional sides.
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).