Linda’s Famous Cheese Ball Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next holiday, office party, or potluck, Linda’s Famous Cheese Ball is the perfect choice! This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s a favorite in many households, especially for special gatherings. Despite its simplicity, this cheese ball is bursting with flavor and pairs beautifully with buttery crackers like Ritz. Not only is it super easy to prepare, but it also looks stunning when displayed in a cake dome or on a decorative platter. Plus, with its high-protein, low-carb ingredients, it’s perfect for those looking to indulge without the guilt.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Information (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 1 block | 1910.2 calories, 170.6g fat, 108.2g saturated fat |
| Blue cheese | 1/8 cup | Sodium: 2871.2mg, Cholesterol: 530.1mg |
| Cheddar cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup | 85.9g protein, 11.2g carbs, 1.9g sugar |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove | 0.1g fiber |
| Chili powder | As needed | — |
| Paprika | As needed | — |
Nutritional Information for One Cheese Ball
- Calories: 1910.2 kcal
- Total Fat: 170.6g
- Saturated Fat: 108.2g
- Cholesterol: 530.1mg
- Sodium: 2871.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugars: 1.9g
- Protein: 85.9g
Recipe Yield: 1 cheese ball
Servings: Servings are flexible depending on how much each person consumes, but this cheese ball is typically enough for a small gathering.
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Prepare the Cheeses | Begin by bringing your cream cheese to room temperature. This step is essential as it makes mixing much easier and helps the flavors blend together seamlessly. Grate the cheddar cheese and blue cheese while they are cold for best results, and set them aside. |
| Step 2: Mix the Ingredients | In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, blue cheese, and minced garlic. You’ll need to mix everything by hand, so prepare for a slightly messy process, but don’t worry—it’s worth it! Ensure the cheeses and garlic are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. |
| Step 3: Shape the Cheese Ball | Once the cheeses are well blended, mold the mixture into a round ball using your hands. You want the ball to be firm but not too dense. Be sure to handle it gently to keep its round shape intact. |
| Step 4: Season the Cheese Ball | In a separate small dish or on a plate, mix chili powder and paprika. The ratio can be adjusted to your liking, but a 50/50 blend usually works well. Spread the spice mixture on the plate and roll the cheese ball in the spices, ensuring the ball is evenly coated all over. This gives the cheese ball not only a vibrant color but also an extra layer of flavor. |
| Step 5: Refrigerate the Cheese Ball | Once the cheese ball is coated in the spices, wrap it tightly in foil, waxed paper, or cling film. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least one hour. This step allows the flavors to meld together and makes the cheese ball easier to handle. You can also make the cheese ball a day in advance, and let it chill overnight for convenience. |
| Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! | Before serving, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes—this will soften it just enough to make it easier to spread on crackers. Be careful not to leave it out for too long, though, as it can become too soft. Arrange your favorite buttery crackers around the cheese ball, and enjoy! Ritz crackers or similar buttery options pair wonderfully with the rich and tangy flavors of the cheese. |
Make-Ahead Tip:
This cheese ball can easily be made the night before your event. Just store it in the refrigerator overnight and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- Blue Cheese Substitution: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can easily substitute it with another strong cheese like Gorgonzola or even sharp white cheddar for a milder taste.
- Spice Customization: The chili powder and paprika coating can be adjusted to your preference. For those who prefer a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using smoked paprika for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Pairings: While this cheese ball is delicious with Ritz crackers, you can also serve it with a variety of accompaniments like toasted baguette slices, pretzel chips, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrot sticks.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to bring it to room temperature again before serving.
This easy, make-ahead cheese ball will impress your guests and become a favorite at any gathering. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a stress-free appetizer that delivers big on taste!
