Are you looking for a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further! This Cheese Ball Recipe, inspired by the queen of effortless entertaining herself, Ina Garten, is the perfect addition to any gathering. It's creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make – even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your party snacks to a whole new level! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (relatively!), quick dinner ideas, or just delicious dishes for any occasion. It's homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Finely chop your nuts and green onions for a smooth texture.
Step 2: Combine the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, nuts, green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Shape the cheese ball: Roll the mixture into a ball. You can use your hands or a spoon to shape it neatly.
Step 4: Chill and serve: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up. This step allows for easier serving and a more satisfying texture. Before serving, garnish with fresh chives (optional) and serve with your favorite crackers or vegetables.
Tips for the Best Cheese Ball:
- Soften the cream cheese properly: This is crucial for a smooth and creamy cheese ball. Don't rush this step!
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the cheese ball tough. Once the ingredients are combined, stop mixing.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the cheese ball to chill for at least a couple of hours ensures it holds its shape and the flavors develop.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, herbs, spices, or even dried fruits to customize your cheese ball.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheese Ball: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Herb Cheese Ball: Substitute fresh herbs like parsley or dill for the green onions.
- Bacon Cheese Ball: Crumble cooked bacon into the mixture for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. This is an estimate based on a 1 ounce serving:
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This cheese ball recipe is a great example of delicious and relatively healthy homemade cooking. It’s perfect for satisfying those cravings for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, while still offering a sophisticated touch to your next gathering. Enjoy!