Sister Lucy'S Cheese Ball Or Loaf
A savory cheese ball or loaf featuring cheddar and cream cheese, perfect for parties or snacking, with optional seasonings and chopped beef for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take the Cheddar cheese, cut into small pieces, and put in a blender.
- Knead the cream cheese with your hands until soft and manageable.
- Combine the cheeses and roll into a ball or loaf shape.
- Season with garlic powder or hot pepper if desired.
- Chop chipped beef or shred it, then roll the cheese in the chipped beef to coat.
- Wrap the cheese ball or loaf and refrigerate.
- Slice and serve with dip and crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of sharp and mild Cheddar cheeses. If you want to reduce calories, swap out some cream cheese for Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or fresh herbs to personalize the flavor. This cheese ball can also be shaped into smaller bites for easier serving. For a twist, try pairing it with the flavors found in Spinach Cheese Puffs.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the cheese ball into wedges or serve it whole with a selection of crackers, fresh vegetables, or bread. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dips, like a tangy ranch or a spicy salsa. Consider serving it alongside some Granny's Apple Dip for a sweet contrast. This dish is perfect for parties or as a game day snack, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap any leftover cheese ball or loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. To serve after freezing, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat; it's best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sister Lucy'S Cheese Ball Or Loaf contains roughly 752 calories, with 33g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (67% of the Daily Value), and protein (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1177mg per serving (51% 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 prepared a day or two in advance. Just wrap it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're making it for a special occasion, consider preparing it the night before for maximum convenience.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor profile, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack. For a more adventurous taste, try using a combination of blue cheese and cream cheese. This will give a unique twist to the dish, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cheese mixture before forming it into a ball. Rolling the cheese in crushed red pepper flakes or serving it with a spicy dip can also intensify the flavor. It's a great way to customize the recipe to your taste!
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).