Description
A sophisticated and crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your holiday table, this cream cheese and sharp cheddar ball is infused with savory aromatics and finished with a colorful, herbaceous crust. The combination of softened cream cheese, freshly shredded cheddar, and roasted bell peppers creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor, while the meticulous chilling process ensures a firm, spreadable consistency that is perfect for crackers or fresh vegetables during festive gatherings.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 cups sharp cheddar, freshly shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp yellow onion, grated and liquid removed
1 tsp olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 cup roasted bell pepper, finely diced
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a small pan and sauté the minced garlic and onion until softened.
Cool the onion and garlic mixture completely to prevent melting the cheese.
Combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar in a large mixing bowl until uniform.
Fold the cooled onion and garlic mixture into the cheese base.
Place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and gather the edges to form a tight, round ball.
Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least two hours until firm.
In a shallow plate, combine the chopped parsley, smoked paprika, and diced roasted peppers.
Roll the chilled cheese ball in the herb and pepper mixture until fully coated.
Notes
Ensure the grated onion is pressed well to remove excess moisture for a better structural hold. Keep the cheese ball refrigerated until 15 minutes before serving for optimal spreadability. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 2 oz)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg