Rosemary’s Classic Cheese Ball Recipe
Description
This timeless cheese ball recipe, shared with me by my dear friend Rosemary over 25 years ago, has become a staple for gatherings and celebrations of all kinds. Loved by everyone from kids to adults, it’s simple to make and brings together the delightful creaminess of cheeses with the punch of fresh herbs. Serve it with crackers, vegetables, or even sliced baguette, and enjoy this flavorful, easy appetizer.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Information (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Velveeta Cheese | 1 cup | 160 kcal, 13g fat, 10g protein |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz | 193 kcal, 19g fat, 3.5g protein |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove | 4 kcal, 0g fat, 0.2g protein |
| Fresh Herbs (such as parsley, chives, etc.) | 2 tbsp, chopped | Varies; optional for garnish |
| Dried Herbs (thyme, dill, or other favorites) | 1 tsp | Varies; adds depth of flavor |
Note: You can customize with additional herbs or spices according to your taste.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 585.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 46g |
| Saturated Fat | 29.8g |
| Cholesterol | 161.1mg |
| Sodium | 2350.6mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 12.2g |
| Protein | 27.3g |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, place the Velveeta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, and dried herbs. The best way to blend these ingredients is to squish everything together with your hands. This method ensures a smooth, cohesive mixture that captures the flavor evenly throughout. |
| 2 | Shape the Cheese Ball: Once the cheeses and seasonings are thoroughly mixed, shape the mixture into a ball or log. |
| 3 | Add Coating: Roll the cheese ball in your choice of finely chopped fresh herbs, spices, or even nuts. This adds extra texture, color, and flavor. You can use chives, parsley, smoked paprika, or crushed pecans for a beautiful presentation. |
| 4 | Chill Before Serving: Place the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and gives the cheese ball a firm texture. |
| 5 | Optional – Add a Fun Shape: For a seasonal twist, shape the cheese ball into a pumpkin and insert a thick, short pretzel stick in the top to resemble a stem. You can skip the herbs or nuts for garnish when making this festive version. |
| 6 | Serving Tips: If you make this cheese ball in advance, allow it to come to room temperature before serving so it spreads easily. Pair it with your favorite crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer. |
This cheese ball is a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that keeps people coming back for more! Perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a holiday centerpiece, it’s both flavorful and easy to customize with different herbs and spices. Plus, the nostalgia of a classic recipe is sure to bring warmth to any gathering.
