Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, red bell pepper, black olives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a ball.
4. Wrap the cheese ball tightly with the plastic wrap and place it on a baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Spread the chopped pecans on the parchment paper.
8. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the chopped pecans, pressing the nuts into the cheese to adhere.
9. Place the cheese ball on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the pecans are lightly toasted.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 2 hours or overnight
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
- Makes one cheese ball, serves 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Sugar: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use any shredded cheese of your choice.
- You can substitute the green onions with chopped chives or shallots.
- Instead of red bell pepper, you can use chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
- If you don't like black olives, you can omit them or use chopped pickles or capers instead.
- Instead of pecans, you can use chopped walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.
Variations:
- Add chopped cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Use different herbs and spices for a different flavor profile, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or dried oregano.
- Roll the cheese ball in different coatings, such as chopped fresh herbs, crushed crackers, or bacon bits.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and mix everything evenly.
- You can make the cheese ball ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking it.
- Let the cheese ball cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot from the oven.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the cheese ball, place it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Place the cheese ball on a platter and surround it with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- A green salad or a fruit salad would be a refreshing side dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese ball is too soft to shape into a ball, refrigerate it for a bit longer until it firms up.
- If the cheese ball falls apart when you roll it in the pecans, press the nuts into the cheese more firmly.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling the ingredients.
- Keep the cheese ball refrigerated until ready to bake and serve.
Food history:
- The cheese ball is a classic American party appetizer that became popular in the 1950s and 1960s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory, nutty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or a snack at parties or gatherings.
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