Tangy Cheese Ball
A creamy, tangy cheese ball with sharp Cheddar, pimentos, and nuts, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except nuts, mixing well.
- Shape into 2 balls and coat with chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Chill for 8 hours.
- Serve at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend the cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth before mixing in the other ingredients. You can substitute the olives with chopped pickles or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using low-fat cream cheese. This cheese ball pairs well with crackers or vegetable sticks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tangy Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even pita chips for dipping. It makes a perfect appetizer for parties or gatherings and can be paired with a refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea. For a delightful spread, consider serving it alongside Dk Wright'S Favorite Artichoke Spread for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best results, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tangy Cheese Ball contains roughly 1350 calories, with 38g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 129g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), calcium (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1194mg per serving (52% 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?
Yes, you can make the cheese ball up to 48 hours in advance. Just shape it into balls, coat with nuts, and refrigerate until ready to serve. This gives the flavors more time to meld together, enhancing its taste.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative. Additionally, for a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with nutritional yeast for added flavor and creaminess.
How can I make this more spicy?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. You can also incorporate a sprinkling of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika, which will elevate the flavor profile while maintaining the tanginess of the cheese ball.
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).