Sure, let’s dive into the detailed preparation of the Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball recipe!
Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball Recipe
Overview:
This Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball is a savory delight, perfect for parties, brunches, or any gathering where you want to impress with a flavorful spread. It combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese and cheddar cheese with the tang of Dijon mustard, the aromatic blend of dried basil and onion powder, and the intense sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped in crunchy walnuts. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making it a convenient dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp dried basil leaves
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (preferably not oil-packed)
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts, for coating
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, dried basil leaves, minced garlic clove, and onion powder. Use an electric mixer set to medium speed to blend the ingredients together. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth, but be cautious not to overmix, as you want a textured consistency rather than a completely smooth mixture. |
| 2 | Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. |
| 3 | Shape the cheese mixture into a ball, about 5 inches in diameter. You can adjust the size based on your preference, but aim for a compact, rounded shape. |
| 4 | Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and allows the cheese ball to firm up, making it easier to handle and coat with nuts. |
| 5 | After chilling, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the chopped walnuts until the entire surface is evenly coated. The walnuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to complement the creamy cheese. |
| 6 | Once coated, re-wrap the cheese ball in fresh plastic wrap and return it to the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Ideally, let it chill for another 1-2 hours to ensure it’s nicely set and the flavors have fully developed. |
| 7 | Before serving, you can optionally garnish the cheese ball with additional chopped herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a decorative touch. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for dipping. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball! |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1587.8
- Total Fat: 144.4g
- Saturated Fat: 70.3g
- Cholesterol: 368.6mg
- Sodium: 2657.7mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30.3g
- Fiber: 7.5g
- Sugar: 14.8g
- Protein: 53.5g
Tips:
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses. A sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor, but you can also try combinations with smoked cheese or even a bit of blue cheese for a more intense profile.
- Make Ahead: This cheese ball can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Simply keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually develop more as it sits, so it can be beneficial to make it ahead of time.
- Customization: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. Alternatively, fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can add a vibrant color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
This Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Crackers: Choose your favorite variety of crackers for easy spreading.
- Bread: Sliced baguette or crusty bread is perfect for a more substantial bite.
- Vegetables: Fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, or bell peppers add a crisp contrast.
- Wine: Serve with a chilled white wine or a light red wine to complement the savory flavors.
Enjoy preparing and sharing this Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball recipe, sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty treat for any occasion. The creamy texture, combined with the sweet and tangy notes of sun-dried tomatoes, makes it a versatile and irresistible dish. Perfect for potlucks, brunches, or simply as a delicious snack, this cheese ball is easy to make and even easier to enjoy! 🧀🍅
