Cheese Ball Recipe with Cheddar, Cream Cheese, Garlic, and Pecans

Nutty Cheese Ball

Cheese Ball Recipe with Cheddar, Cream Cheese, Garlic, and Pecans
Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 10-12

Introduction

Nutty Cheese Ball
Nutty Cheese Ball

This Nutty Cheese Ball recipe is a delicious and easy appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or party. The combination of creamy cheeses, garlic, and crunchy pecans creates a flavorful and satisfying snack that will impress your guests.

History

The cheese ball has been a popular party food for decades, with variations of the recipe appearing in cookbooks and magazines since the 1950s. The addition of nuts to the cheese ball adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Mix the cheeses together.
  2. Mix in the garlic and chopped nuts.
  3. Chill for several hours.
  4. Roll the mixture into balls and coat them with minced nuts. Finally, sprinkle with paprika.

Variations

  • Add chopped herbs such as parsley or chives for a fresh flavor.
  • Mix in cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist.
  • Roll the cheese balls in different coatings such as crushed pretzels or dried fruit for a unique presentation.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.

- Chill the cheese mixture before rolling into balls to make it easier to handle.

- Use a variety of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

- Experiment with different nuts and seasonings to customize the recipe to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Nutty Cheese Ball with crackers, sliced vegetables, or crusty bread for a delicious and satisfying appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Mixing the cheeses together thoroughly is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture for the cheese ball. Chilling the mixture before rolling into balls helps it to firm up and hold its shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute different types of cheese for the cheddar and cheese spread in this recipe. You can also use different types of nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to roll it into balls. The cheese balls can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cheese balls on a platter with a variety of crackers and garnish with fresh herbs or additional nuts for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Nutty Cheese Ball pairs well with a variety of wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Noir. It also pairs well with beer or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Nutty Cheese Ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, let the cheese ball come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Nutty Cheese Ball contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Nutty Cheese Ball contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Nutty Cheese Ball contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Nutty Cheese Ball contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Nutty Cheese Ball is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Nutty Cheese Ball contains dairy and nuts.

Summary

Nutty Cheese Ball is a rich and creamy appetizer that is high in fat and protein. It is a delicious treat that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Nutty Cheese Ball is a delicious and easy appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or party. With its creamy cheeses, garlic, and crunchy pecans, it is sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Nutty Cheese Ball. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for a ladies' luncheon. Margaret had always been known for her culinary skills, and I was eager to taste whatever delicious dish she had prepared for us that day.

As we sat around her dining table, chatting and laughing, Margaret brought out a platter with a stunning cheese ball in the center. It was covered in chopped nuts and herbs, and it looked absolutely divine. I couldn't wait to try it.

Margaret smiled as she explained that the recipe had been passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a French chef many years ago. She had made a few tweaks to the original recipe over the years, but the basic ingredients remained the same - cream cheese, cheddar cheese, herbs, and of course, plenty of nuts.

I took a bite of the cheese ball and was immediately transported to food heaven. The creamy cheese mixed with the sharp cheddar and the crunch of the nuts was a match made in culinary heaven. I begged Margaret for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me.

Over the years, I have made this Nutty Cheese Ball recipe countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday parties. It has always been a hit, and I have received countless compliments on it. People always ask me where I learned to make it, and I love telling them the story of Margaret and her grandmother's French chef.

To make the Nutty Cheese Ball, you will need:

- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

- 1/4 cup chopped green onions

- 1/4 cup chopped pecans

- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, green onions, pecans, walnuts, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

Before serving, roll the cheese ball in additional chopped nuts and herbs for garnish. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

I am always amazed at how a simple recipe can bring back such fond memories and create new ones as well. The Nutty Cheese Ball has become a staple in my recipe collection, and I will continue to make it for years to come. Thank you, Margaret, for sharing your family's recipe with me. It truly is a treasure.

Categories

| American Recipes | Appetizer Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cheese Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients

(3) Tirshi
(3) Bifanas