Sharon'S Cheese Ball
A creamy cheese ball infused with Italian dressing, chopped ham, and coated with nuts and parsley, perfect as an appetizer for gatherings and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream cheese, cottage cheese, and Italian dressing together.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour.
- Stir chopped ham into the cheese mixture.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts and parsley to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta for a different flavor profile. Consider using smoked ham for added depth. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. Adding a bit of garlic powder can elevate the taste as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sharon's Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Della Joseph'S 'Hanging On A Chip', offering a wonderful contrast in flavors. Garnish with additional parsley for a fresh look, and consider serving it alongside a refreshing fruit platter to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. If you want to freeze it, shape the cheese ball and wrap it well; it can last up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharon'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 851 calories, with 23g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), potassium (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1706mg per serving (74% 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well and refrigerate. This makes it a perfect option for parties or gatherings, ensuring you have one less thing to worry about on the day of your event.
What can I substitute for the chopped nuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use them, you can roll the cheese ball in crushed crackers or seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This adds an interesting crunch and keeps the dish accessible for everyone. You could also skip the coating altogether if you prefer a simpler presentation.
How do I know when the cheese ball is ready to serve?
The cheese ball is ready when it holds its shape well and is chilled throughout. After refrigerating for an hour, check the consistency—if it’s firm and easy to slice, it’s perfect. If you prepare it a day ahead, just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
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).