Christmas Cheese Ball

Name: Christmas Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 cheese balls (1-1/2 cups each).
Ingredients: 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion; 1 tablespoon diced pimientos; 1 tablespoon diced green pepper; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Chopped pecans, toasted; Assorted crackers

"This rich cheese spread is delicious and wonderfully attractive," says Esther Shank of Harrisonville, Virginia.

Ingredients

2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon diced pimientos
1 tablespoon diced green pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Chopped pecans, toasted
Assorted crackers

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Shape into two balls; roll in pecans. Cover and chill. Remove from the refrigerator 15 minutes before serving. Serve with crackers.

Nutrition Facts

2 tablespoons: 70 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 94mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.

Originally published as Christmas Cheese Ball in Taste of Home December/January 2000

Reviews

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Average Rating:

tcarver

Dec 28, 2017

Although this was a very simple recipe, it did lack flavor. I could only taste cream cheese. I have tried other cheese balls that have a much better flavor.
slmacbeth

Dec 11, 2017

I agree with Martha, I thought it lacked flavor. It didn't taste bad, but I would rather have a store-bought cheese ball, to be honest. Just didn't taste like much of anything. other than cream cheese.
dig1

Dec 30, 2016

Good one
Fluffyberry

Nov 16, 2015

I have made this so many times its requested every year. I actua)y have the december 2000 issue of the magazine where the recipie was originally printed. Love taste of home!
martha f

Dec 31, 2013

I tried this because of all the positive ratings. It was good, but lacked that pizzaz that gives it a unique flavor and it was just . . . well cheese flavor. I ended up doubling the vegs and adding some celery salt and a tad of garlic. That helped but would have liked a "zip" in it. I didn't know what to add to get that special flavor but will try it again someday.
akoehler79

Dec 23, 2012

Made this last year for Christmas. It was devoured! So good. This was my first ever attempt at a cheese ball and it was so simple. Definitely making again!
MomsTXTaxi

Dec 5, 2011

This is the best cheese ball recipe!!! Friends and co-workers ask for this for Christmas!!
aware

Jan 17, 2011

The flavors in this cheese ball were subtle. It made the perfect addition to my Christmas appetizer table. I did, however, break the cardinal rule of cream cheese....I made this ahead and froze it. The ball didn't stick together well after being thawed, but it still tasted great.
blpotter

Nov 27, 2010

Delicious! I modified the recipe a little bit by adding more of the veggies than it called for, but I'm glad I did. It added wonderful flavor and texture.
redrose507

Mar 29, 2010

The best cheese ball recipe ever. I have been making this for years and it is always a big hit.