Sombreros
Cheddar cheese and seasoned butter baked around stuffed green olives create savory, bite-sized snacks perfect for parties or casual gatherings with a cheesy, salty flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the shredded Cheddar cheese and soft butter until well combined.
- Add the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce; blend well to incorporate all seasonings.
- Shape the mixture into small balls around each green olive.
- Place the shaped balls on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped herbs to the cheese mixture. If you're short on cheddar, you can blend in some cream cheese for creaminess or use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, especially with the paprika for added warmth. This recipe is a fun alternative to serve with the Easy Double Chocolate Chip Brownies for a snack platter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sombreros as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering, pairing them with a fresh salad or a creamy dip like ranch or guacamole. They also complement well with a light white wine or sparkling water. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside the Baby Peas And Water Chestnuts Casserole for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sombreros on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, restoring their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it might make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sombreros contains roughly 182 calories, with 9g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 927mg per serving (40% 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 vegetarian sombreros?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses cheese and butter. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are vegetarian-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies. You can also incorporate chopped vegetables into the cheese mixture for added texture and flavor.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake as directed. This makes them a great option for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests.
What can I substitute for green olives?
If you're not a fan of green olives, you can replace them with pimento-stuffed olives or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. For a savory twist, use small cubes of pickles or even marinated artichoke hearts, keeping the overall shape for presentation.
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).