Tired of the same old party snacks? Looking for a delicious and easy appetizer that's sure to impress your guests? Then look no further! This walnut cheese ball recipe is the perfect solution. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this homemade delight – it’s one of those best recipes that’s both quick and impressive!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 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 salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Additional chopped walnuts for rolling
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth. This is where your homemade magic starts!
Step 2: Add the nuts and green onions
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and green onions. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain some texture within the cheese ball.
Step 3: Shape the cheese ball
Once all the ingredients are incorporated, transfer the mixture to a plastic wrap-lined bowl or plate. Shape it into a ball. This is easier to do if you lightly wet your hands.
Step 4: Chill and roll (optional)
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 cheese ball to firm up. Once chilled, you can roll the cheese ball in extra chopped walnuts for added texture and visual appeal.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, breadsticks, or vegetable sticks.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Walnut Cheese Ball:
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened for easy mixing. You can soften it quickly by microwaving it in short bursts or leaving it out at room temperature for a while.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the cheese ball tough. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined.
- Chill thoroughly: Chilling is crucial for the cheese ball to firm up and hold its shape. The longer it chills, the better it will hold.
- Get creative with the toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or even everything bagel seasoning.
Variations:
- Spicy Walnut Cheese Ball: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Walnut Cheese Ball: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
- Bacon Walnut Cheese Ball: Crumble cooked bacon into the mixture for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on serving size and added toppings)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This walnut cheese ball is a simple, yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. It's a great example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!