Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further! This blue cheese ball recipe is the perfect solution for your next gathering. It's incredibly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and boasts a flavor profile that's both bold and sophisticated. Forget store-bought appetizers; this homemade delight is creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple homemade cooking. It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or even a simple weeknight snack. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Additional chopped walnuts or pecans for rolling
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled blue cheese. Mix until well blended. Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened for easy mixing. This is a key to achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
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Add flavor: Stir in the milk (or cream), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated. The Worcestershire sauce adds a nice depth of savory flavor, while the garlic powder complements the sharp blue cheese perfectly.
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Shape the ball: Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to shape it into a ball. You can roll it into a perfect sphere or make it slightly irregular for a more rustic look. Lightly wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking.
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Roll and chill: Roll the cheese ball in the chopped nuts. Press the nuts gently into the ball to ensure they adhere well. Place the cheese ball on a serving plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up. Chilling is crucial for the best taste and texture.
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Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, serve your delicious blue cheese ball with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
- Nut variations: Try using other nuts like almonds or pistachios instead of walnuts or pecans.
- Fruit additions: For a sweet and savory twist, incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apricots into the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. A general estimate for a serving (assuming about 1/8th of the ball) might be around:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This blue cheese ball recipe is a simple yet elegant appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy texture and sharp, tangy flavor are guaranteed to be a hit with your guests. Try this recipe today and elevate your next gathering with a truly unforgettable treat. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor and impact. Consider it part of your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, or simply a delicious and healthy meal addition. Enjoy!