Not Just for Holidays Swiss Cheese Bacon Cheese Ball π§π₯
Overview:
This irresistible Swiss Cheese Bacon Cheese Ball recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion or gathering. Bursting with cheesy goodness and savory bacon flavors, this indulgent appetizer is sure to disappear quickly! It’s so delicious; you’ll find yourself making it year-round, not just for holidays. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and no cooking required, it’s a breeze to whip up for impromptu gatherings or last-minute snack cravings.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 4018.2
- Fat: 357g
- Saturated Fat: 173.4g
- Cholesterol: 839.6mg
- Sodium: 4479.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 45.8g
- Fiber: 8.3g
- Sugar: 13.8g
- Protein: 165.2g
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, grated π§
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated π§
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened π§
- 10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled π₯
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup pimientos, undrained
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
-
Grate the Cheese:
Start by grating the Swiss and cheddar cheese until you have 2 cups of each. Set aside. -
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Ensure all cheeses are at room temperature for easy blending. -
Add Sour Cream:
Mix in 1/2 cup of sour cream until well combined with the cheeses, creating a creamy base for the cheese ball. -
Incorporate Bacon and Flavorings:
Add 5 pieces of crumbled bacon, finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, undrained pimientos, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. -
Chill the Mixture:
Cover the cheese mixture tightly and chill in the refrigerator for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up. -
Prepare the Coating:
While the cheese mixture is chilling, combine the remaining crumbled bacon, chopped pecans, parsley, and poppy seeds in a shallow dish. This will be the flavorful coating for your cheese ball. -
Shape the Cheese Ball:
Once chilled, remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator and shape it into a ball using your hands. -
Coat the Cheese Ball:
Roll the formed cheese ball in the bacon mixture until evenly coated, pressing gently to adhere the coating to the cheese. -
Final Chill:
Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or foil and chill again in the refrigerator until ready to serve. -
Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving platter. Accompany with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables for dipping, and watch it disappear in no time!
Recipe Notes:
- For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture.
- Customize the coating by incorporating different herbs, spices, or even finely grated cheese for added texture and flavor.
- This cheese ball can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before serving. Just be sure to keep it tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack would all make delicious variations.
- Don’t limit yourself to just holidays; this cheese ball is perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to casual get-togethers with friends and family.
With its creamy texture, savory bacon bits, and cheesy goodness, this Not Just for Holidays Swiss Cheese Bacon Cheese Ball is sure to become a staple at your table! Enjoy the compliments as your guests rave about this irresistible appetizer.