Yuletide Ham-Cheese Ball
A festive and savory cheese ball featuring sharp Cheddar, cream cheese, and flavorful additions like deviled ham, grated onion, and pimentos. Coated with chopped pecans and sprinkled with paprika, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a rich, nutty, and tangy taste that appeals to cheese lovers and party hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and mix it with the grated onion, lemon juice, mustard, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, deviled ham, chopped parsley, and chopped pimento.
- Roll the mixture into a large ball, then coat it with chopped pecans.
- Wrap the cheese ball in foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle the cheese ball with additional paprika.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with another cheese like Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the grated onion or omit it entirely. This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh vegetables, making it a versatile appetizer for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Yuletide Ham-Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies for dipping. It also makes a festive centerpiece for charcuterie boards. For a complete spread, consider pairing it with a seasonal fruit platter or serving alongside your favorite American recipes to create a memorable holiday appetizer table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy it at its best, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, as this enhances the flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yuletide Ham-Cheese Ball contains roughly 118 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 861mg per serving (37% 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 prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. After rolling it in pecans, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served.
What can I substitute for deviled ham?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute deviled ham with a can of tuna mixed with a bit of mayonnaise for creaminess or finely chopped cooked ham. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain a balanced flavor.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To give the cheese ball an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture. You can also increase the amount of paprika or experiment with smoked paprika for added depth and heat.
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).