Shrimp Cheese Balls
Delightful shrimp cheese balls blend creamy Havarti and smooth cream cheese with chopped shrimp and aromatic herbs, creating a savory appetizer perfect for gatherings. Garnished with paprika, they offer a rich, cheesy flavor with a hint of seafood, appealing to cheese lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy.
- Add grated Havarti cheese, chopped green onions, crushed basil, dried rosemary, salt, and chopped shrimp; stir until well blended.
- Divide the cheese mixture in half and shape each half into a ball.
- Sprinkle each cheese ball with paprika.
- Cover and chill for 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to blend.
- Serve with crackers or cocktail bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before beating. You can substitute the Havarti cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if desired. Fresh herbs can replace the dried ones for a more vibrant flavor. Adjust the amount of shrimp based on your preference, and feel free to include additional spices for extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp cheese balls are perfect as an appetizer for parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside crackers, cocktail bread, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful crunch. For a fuller spread, consider pairing them with Grandma Welch'S Sweet Potato Pone or a refreshing vegetable platter. They also make a great addition to any cheese board.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, let the cheese balls come to room temperature, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold right from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Cheese Balls contains roughly 969 calories, with 30g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (307% of the Daily Value), iron (123% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1952mg per serving (85% 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 these shrimp cheese balls in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making them a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just follow the recipe, chill them overnight, and they’ll be ready to serve the next day. This makes them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings.
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp! Just ensure they are peeled, cooked, and chopped finely before mixing. Fresh shrimp can enhance the flavor, but ensure they are properly cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
What can I serve these cheese balls with?
These cheese balls pair well with a variety of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. You can also serve them with a tangy dipping sauce or alongside cheese and charcuterie for a well-rounded appetizer platter.
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).