Tired of the same old party snacks? Craving something quick, easy, and undeniably delicious? Then look no further! This cheese ball with ham and green onion is the perfect appetizer, guaranteed to impress your guests and disappear quickly. It’s the ultimate combination of creamy, salty, and subtly sweet flavors – a true crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations. This recipe is a simple example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish without the fuss. It’s one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly elegant, transforming a simple cheese ball into a star appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked ham
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
- Crackers, breadsticks, or vegetables for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare your ingredients: Begin by softening the cream cheese. This is easiest if you leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. While it softens, chop the ham and green onions finely. This ensures even distribution in the cheese ball.
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Combine the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Then, stir in the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
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Add the ham and green onions: Gently fold in the chopped ham and green onions. If using, add the pecans or walnuts at this stage as well. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain some texture.
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Shape the cheese ball: Once all ingredients are incorporated, use your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking) or a spoon to shape the mixture into a ball. This is where you can get creative! You can make a perfect sphere, a slightly flattened ball, or even shape it into a fun design.
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Chill and serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up. Serve with crackers, breadsticks, or your favorite vegetables for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheese Ball:
- For an extra flavorful cheese ball, try using a mix of cheeses – sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even some pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- If your cream cheese is too firm, microwave it for short intervals (10-15 seconds at a time) until it's easily spreadable.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices! A dash of paprika, dried dill, or even some finely chopped fresh chives would be delicious additions.
- For a visually appealing cheese ball, roll it in chopped nuts, finely grated parmesan cheese, or even breadcrumbs before chilling.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheese Ball: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Bacon Cheese Ball: Substitute bacon bits for the ham for a smoky flavor.
- Herb Cheese Ball: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite fresh herbs, like parsley, chives, or dill.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. A rough estimate for a 1-ounce serving would be around 100-150 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and serving size you used.
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a simple appetizer. Enjoy your delicious and impressive cheese ball!