Craig's Ultimate Savory Deviled Ham Cheese Delight
Elevate your appetizer game with Craig's Ultimate Savory Deviled Ham Cheese Delight. This is not your ordinary cheese ball. With an irresistible blend of creamy cheeses, zesty spices, and a surprise of deviled ham, this cheese ball will leave an unforgettable impression on your taste buds and guests alike. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging on a cozy evening. Enjoy the creamy texture paired with the satisfying crunch of pecans. Just a warning - it's absolutely addictive! Your new favorite appetizer is here, straight from Craig's family recipe treasure trove.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
16 ounces (softened)
sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 lb (shredded)
grated onions
2 teaspoons
Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons
lemon juice
1 teaspoon
dry mustard
1 teaspoon
paprika
1/2 teaspoon
seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon
salt
1/4 teaspoon
deviled ham
2 1/2 ounces (canned)
parsley
2 teaspoons (chopped)
pimientos
2 teaspoons (chopped)
pecans
2/3 cup (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by setting out the cream cheese to allow it to soften for easy mixing.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated onions, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, dry mustard, paprika, seasoned salt, and regular salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well integrated.
3
Add the deviled ham, chopped parsley, and chopped pimientos to the cheese mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
4
Divide the mixture into two equal parts and shape each portion into a ball.
5
Spread the chopped pecans on a clean surface and roll each cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to ensure they adhere to the surface.
6
Wrap each cheese ball tightly in foil to hold its shape and infuse the flavors.
7
Chill the wrapped cheese balls in the refrigerator for at least three hours or until firm.
8
Once chilled, unwrap the cheese balls and serve them with a selection of your favorite crackers for an enjoyable experience.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Craig's Ultimate Savory Deviled Ham Cheese Delight?
It is a savory appetizer cheese ball featuring a blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and deviled ham, coated in crunchy pecans.
How many cheese balls does this recipe make?
This recipe yields two equal-sized cheese balls.
How long should the cheese balls chill before serving?
The cheese balls should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least three hours or until they are firm.
What are the primary cheeses used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 pound of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
What is the unique 'surprise' ingredient in this cheese ball?
The unique surprise ingredient is 2 1/2 ounces of canned deviled ham.
What kind of nuts are used for the coating?
The cheese balls are rolled in 2/3 cup of finely chopped pecans.
How do I prepare the cream cheese for mixing?
You should set the cream cheese out to soften before you begin mixing to ensure a smooth texture.
What spices are included in the mixture?
The spices include dry mustard, paprika, seasoned salt, and regular salt.
How much Worcestershire sauce is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce.
Is lemon juice used in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice is added to the mixture for zest.
Should the onions be chopped or grated?
The recipe specifies using 2 teaspoons of grated onions.
What are pimientos and how are they prepared?
Pimientos are sweet red peppers; you should use 2 teaspoons of them, chopped.
How do I ensure the pecans stick to the cheese ball?
Roll each cheese ball in the chopped pecans on a clean surface and press gently so they adhere to the exterior.
What should I use to wrap the cheese balls while they chill?
You should wrap each cheese ball tightly in foil to help them hold their shape and infuse the flavors.
What is the best way to serve this appetizer?
Serve the chilled cheese balls with a selection of your favorite crackers.
Can I use mild cheddar instead of sharp?
While sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, you can use mild cheddar if you prefer a less intense taste.
Is there parsley in this recipe?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of chopped parsley are mixed into the cheese blend.
How much paprika is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for parties, gatherings, or holiday events.
What is the texture of the cheese ball?
The cheese ball has a creamy interior paired with a satisfying crunch from the pecan coating.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, because it requires at least three hours of chilling, it is an excellent make-ahead appetizer.
How much seasoned salt should I add?
You should add 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt.
What is the total count of ingredients?
There are 13 ingredients in total for this recipe.
Is the deviled ham mixed in or used as a core?
The deviled ham is stirred directly into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
Can I use different nuts if I have a pecan allergy?
Yes, you could substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
What does the dry mustard add to the recipe?
Dry mustard provides a subtle tang and depth of flavor that complements the sharp cheddar.
How many cheese balls are shaped from the mixture?
The mixture is divided into two equal parts to create two separate cheese balls.
Does this recipe contain salt?
Yes, it uses both 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt and 1/4 teaspoon of regular salt.
Is this a family recipe?
Yes, it is described as coming straight from Craig's family recipe treasure trove.
Is the recipe spicy?
The recipe is savory and zesty rather than hot, making it approachable for most guests.