Are you looking for a simple yet impressive appetizer that will wow your guests? Look no further! This easy cheese ball recipe is the perfect solution for your next gathering. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this no-nut cheese ball is quick, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit. It's the perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, a fantastic quick dinner idea, and a testament to the joy of homemade cooking. Get ready to experience the best recipes for effortless entertaining!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Crackers, vegetables, or breadsticks for serving
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly smooth cheese ball.
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Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
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Shape the ball: Once everything is well combined, use your hands to shape the mixture into a ball. If the mixture seems too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up before shaping.
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Chill and serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up. This chilling step is important for both taste and texture.
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Garnish and enjoy: Before serving, garnish the cheese ball with chopped fresh parsley (optional). Serve with your favorite crackers, vegetable sticks, or breadsticks.
Tips for the Perfect Cheese Ball:
- Soften the cream cheese completely: This will make mixing much easier and result in a smoother, creamier cheese ball. You can soften the cream cheese quickly by microwaving it for short intervals, or leaving it at room temperature for about an hour.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the cheese ball tough. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of seasonings to your liking. If you love garlic, add a little more garlic powder!
- Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique cheese ball variations.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Cheese Ball: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Cheese Ball: Substitute the green onions with a mix of finely chopped fresh herbs like chives, dill, and parsley.
- Ranch Cheese Ball: Stir in 2 tablespoons of your favorite ranch dressing for a zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200 (depending on serving size and add-ins)
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-8g
This easy cheese ball recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are simple to make. It's a great option for those busy weeknights when you want a healthy meal without sacrificing taste. Perfect for parties, game days, or a simple weeknight snack, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!