Darlene’s Cheese Ball π§π
Overview:
Darlene’s Cheese Ball is a delightful spread that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering with friends or a festive holiday feast. This easy-to-make recipe yields a creamy and flavorful cheese ball that pairs perfectly with crackers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time.
- Recipe Name: Darlene’s Cheese Ball
- Recipe Category: Spreads
- Keywords: Cheese, Very Low Carbs, Kid Friendly, Spring, Summer, Winter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, < 15 Mins, Easy
- Servings: 12
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: Not Applicable
Ingredients:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 jar stuffed green olives
- 1/2 small onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 clove garlic
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 365.9
- Fat: 35.2g
- Saturated Fat: 20.9g
- Cholesterol: 103mg
- Sodium: 598.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 3.4g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Protein: 10.6g
Recipe Instructions:
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Preparation: Begin by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
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Mixing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese (softened), shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic clove. Drain the stuffed green olives from the jar and chop them into small pieces. Add the chopped olives to the bowl.
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Forming the Cheese Ball: Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Then, using your hands, shape the mixture into a ball. You can also divide the mixture into smaller balls if preferred.
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Chilling: Wrap the cheese ball(s) in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator to chill overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld together and for the cheese ball to firm up.
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Optional Coating: Before chilling, you can customize your cheese ball by rolling it in finely chopped nuts or finely grated ham for added flavor and texture.
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Serving: Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place it on a serving platter and surround it with your favorite crackers.
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Enjoy: Serve this delicious Darlene’s Cheese Ball at your next gathering and watch it disappear within minutes! The creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of olives and cheddar, will have your guests coming back for more.
Tips:
- For a festive touch during the holiday season, consider rolling the cheese ball in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or even in crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Experiment with different types of olives for unique flavor variations. Kalamata olives or black olives can add an extra depth of flavor to the cheese ball.
- To save time on prep, you can make the cheese ball mixture in advance and chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to shape and serve.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- Serve alongside a variety of crackers, breadsticks, or sliced vegetables for a complete appetizer spread.
Conclusion:
Darlene’s Cheese Ball is a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its creamy texture, flavorful ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s bound to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible cheese ball creation!