Sister-In-Law Cheese Ball
A creamy, cheesy appetizer with a nutty crunch, perfect for entertaining and sharing at parties, pairs well with crackers and offers rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend softened cream cheese and sharp Cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Add chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, half of the chopped nuts, and half of the dried parsley. Mix well.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Roll the chilled cheese ball in the remaining chopped nuts and dried parsley until evenly coated.
- Serve with Wheatsworth crackers or your preferred crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To make the cheese ball even creamier, consider using a mix of cream cheese and mascarpone cheese. If you're short on time, you can use pre-shredded cheese for convenience. For an added kick, mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the sharp Cheddar with smoked Gouda or a flavored cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball pairs beautifully with Wheatsworth crackers, but feel free to serve it with an assortment of your favorite crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping. It's a great appetizer for parties or game days. For a complete spread, consider adding a fruit platter or some spicy Peppered Hominy on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving. To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating as it’s best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sister-In-Law Cheese Ball contains roughly 521 calories, with 27g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (96% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% 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! This cheese ball can be made a day or two in advance. Just prepare it, shape it into a ball, and chill it in the refrigerator. Roll it in the remaining nuts and parsley right before serving for the best presentation.
What kind of nuts can I use?
While pecans are traditional, you can use a variety of nuts based on your preference. Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts would work well. Just make sure to chop them finely for even coating on the cheese ball.
Is this cheese ball suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cheese ball is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, always check the Worcestershire sauce label as some brands may contain anchovies. You can substitute it with a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce if needed.
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).