Sandy'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, cheesy cheese ball infused with sharp cheddar, onions, and oregano, perfect for parties and served with crackers or toast for a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped onions, milk, and oregano in a bowl.
- Chill, covered, until slightly firm.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped parsley to coat.
- Serve with crackers or Melba toast rounds.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier cheese ball, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt. If you're short on sharp Cheddar, a mix of mild Cheddar and a bit of Parmesan can work well. To add a kick, try incorporating some finely chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper. This cheese ball can also be made ahead of time, giving the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers, breadsticks, or Melba toast rounds. You can also serve it with sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a fresh crunch. For a delightful spread, consider serving it alongside a fruit platter featuring grapes or apple slices. It makes a great addition to any appetizer table at gatherings or parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. To serve after freezing, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sandy'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 555 calories, with 29g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 882mg per serving (38% 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 shape it and refrigerate it until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to develop even more. Be sure to coat it in parsley right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese, which has a similar taste and texture but contains less fat. For a dairy-free alternative, try using a vegan cream cheese spread available in stores.
How can I make this cheese ball more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding ingredients like minced garlic, smoked paprika, or your favorite herbs such as dill or chives. Mixing in some crumbled bacon or chopped nuts can also add a delightful crunch and savory touch.
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).