Toad'S Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball with dried beef, green onions, and chopped pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a rich, nutty, and slightly tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind beef and green onions in a food processor or blender.
- Add the ground beef and onions to the softened cream cheese and mix well.
- Form the mixture into 2 or 3 cheese balls.
- Roll each cheese ball in chopped pecans until coated.
- Keep the cheese balls refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese as a substitute. You can also experiment with different nuts; walnuts or almonds can add a unique flavor. For added depth, incorporate a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce into the mixture. This cheese ball is a great appetizer for gatherings, pairing well with dishes like Best Yet Beef Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese balls as a delightful appetizer on a platter with assorted crackers and fresh vegetables. Pair them with a sweet chutney or a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor. They also go well with a variety of cheeses and meats, making them a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board. Consider serving with a refreshing beverage to complement the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cheese balls before rolling them in pecans. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and roll in pecans just before serving for a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Toad'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 1096 calories, with 20g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese balls a day or two in advance. Just keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer, you can freeze them and roll in pecans just before serving for a fresh crunch.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If dried beef isn't available, you can substitute with finely chopped cooked ham or turkey, or even use a vegetarian option like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning to complement the new ingredient.
How do I serve these cheese balls?
To serve, place the cheese balls on a decorative platter and surround them with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh vegetables like celery and bell pepper for dipping. They make a beautiful centerpiece for any appetizer spread!
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).