Smoky Cheese Balls
Creamy, smoky cheese balls with crunchy nuts and savory flavors, perfect for parties or snacking, paired beautifully with assorted crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let cream cheese, shredded cheese, and margarine or butter set at room temperature to soften.
- In a mixer, blend milk and steak sauce until fluffy.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for no less than 4 hours.
- Shape the mixture into balls and roll in chopped nuts.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Serve with crackers; slice and spread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese, shredded cheese, and butter become very soft before mixing. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute the smoked Cheddar with gouda for a different flavor profile. Remember to keep the mixture chilled while shaping the balls to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Serving Suggestions
These Smoky Cheese Balls are perfect for parties or as an appetizer at gatherings. Serve them alongside toasted assorted crackers for crunch, and consider pairing with a fruit platter or a fresh vegetable tray. They also pair beautifully with Fayette County Beef Stew for a hearty meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature, then place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to warm through without melting the cheese too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Cheese Balls contains roughly 603 calories, with 11g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 641mg per serving (28% 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 freeze the cheese balls?
Yes, these cheese balls freeze well. Shape them and roll in nuts before freezing. Wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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).