Seafood Cheese Ball
A versatile seafood cheese ball with imitation crab and creamy cheese, perfect for parties or appetizer platters, offering savory flavors and a delightful texture that guests will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and shape into a ball or log.
- Roll in chopped nuts or sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have imitation crabmeat, real crab or even cooked shrimp can be used as substitutes. Adding a dash of lemon juice can enhance the seafood flavor. To add some heat, consider mixing in a bit of hot sauce. This dish is great for gatherings, similar to Grandma Meaney'S Crabmeat Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the seafood cheese ball with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers for a crunchy contrast. It pairs beautifully with Tomato Fish Swirls for a delightful appetizer spread. This dish is perfect for parties, and can also be served alongside a light salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain its freshness, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. Refrain from freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Cheese Ball contains roughly 278 calories, with 9g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (184% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 8g 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 seafood cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Simply shape it, roll it in nuts or parsley, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more intense taste. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
What can I serve with the seafood cheese ball?
The seafood cheese ball pairs well with various sides, including an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even toasted baguette slices. For a full spread, consider adding dips like salsa or guacamole, or complement it with other seafood recipes to create a themed appetizer table.
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cream cheese is the base, you can mix in other cheeses like shredded cheddar or a hint of goat cheese for added flavor. Be cautious with the amounts to keep the ball cohesive. Experimenting with different cheeses can create a unique twist on this classic seafood cheese ball.
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).