Smoky Pecan Cheese Ball Delight
Indulge in this Smoky Pecan Cheese Ball Delight, a savory and creamy appetizer that's perfect for any gathering. Combining the rich flavors of cream cheese, zesty green onions, and smoky Buddig beef, each bite offers a delightful burst of flavor. Rolled in crunchy pecan chips, this cheese ball not only looks impressive but tastes incredible. Serve it with crispy crackers for a crowd-pleasing treat that will have your guests coming back for more. Make it the night before to allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
16 ounces (softened at room temperature)
green onions
3 (chopped fine (green parts only))
Buddig beef
2 ounces (chopped fine)
Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon (none)
Accent seasoning
1 teaspoon (none)
pecan chips
2 ounces (none)
Instructions
1
Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to enhance its mixability.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, chopped Buddig beef, Worcestershire sauce, and Accent seasoning. Mix thoroughly until smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
3
Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands, ensuring it's tightly packed.
4
On a plate, spread the pecan chips evenly. Roll the cheese ball in the pecan chips, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
5
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
6
When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with your choice of crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoky Pecan Cheese Ball Delight?
It is a savory and creamy appetizer featuring cream cheese, green onions, and smoky Buddig beef, coated in crunchy pecan chips.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
How long should I soften the cream cheese?
You should allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to enhance its mixability.
What are the primary ingredients in this cheese ball?
The main ingredients are cream cheese, green onions, Buddig beef, Worcestershire sauce, Accent seasoning, and pecan chips.
What is Buddig beef?
Buddig beef is a brand of very thinly sliced, cured, and smoked deli meat that adds a distinct smoky flavor to the recipe.
Can I substitute the pecan chips with other nuts?
Yes, you can use chopped walnuts, almonds, or even crushed pretzels if you prefer a different crunch.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the cheese ball overnight?
While not strictly mandatory, refrigerating it overnight allows the flavors of the onion, beef, and seasonings to blend beautifully.
What is Accent seasoning?
Accent is a flavor enhancer primarily composed of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) that brings out the savory notes of the ingredients.
What should I serve with this cheese ball?
It is best served with crispy crackers, pita chips, or vegetable crudités like celery and carrots.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the Buddig beef and consider adding smoked paprika or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the cheese mixture from sticking to my hands?
You can lightly dampen your hands with water or use a piece of plastic wrap to help shape the ball more easily.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Can I freeze this cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese can become crumbly and the pecans may lose their crunch upon thawing.
Should I use the white or green part of the onions?
The recipe specifically calls for the green parts only for a milder onion flavor and vibrant color.
How long should it sit out before serving?
Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so it is easy to spread.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer, so it might require more time in the refrigerator to hold its shape.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are generally gluten-free, but always check the labels on the Worcestershire sauce and Buddig beef to ensure they are certified.
Can I add more spices?
Absolutely. Garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper would all be great additions to customize the flavor.
How fine should the beef be chopped?
The beef should be chopped very fine so that it incorporates evenly into every bite of the cheese mixture.
Can I make mini cheese balls instead of one large one?
Yes, you can roll the mixture into small bite-sized truffles and coat them individually in pecan chips for easy serving.
What if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute it with a small amount of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to maintain a similar depth of flavor.
How do I ensure the pecan chips stick to the ball?
Press the pecan chips lightly but firmly into the surface of the cheese ball while rolling it on the plate.
Is this a spicy appetizer?
No, it is a savory and smoky appetizer. If you want heat, you can add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
Can I use a food processor for mixing?
It is better to mix by hand to maintain the texture of the beef and onions, but a food processor can be used on a low pulse setting.
What is the category of this dish?
It is categorized as an Appetizer, specifically a cheese ball or dip.
Can I use dried onions instead of fresh?
Fresh green onions provide the best flavor and texture, but 1 tablespoon of dried minced onions can be used in a pinch.
Is this recipe good for large parties?
Yes, it is a crowd-pleaser that is easy to double for larger gatherings and can be prepared in advance.
What kind of pecans should I use?
Pecan chips or finely chopped pecan halves work best. You can toast them beforehand for a deeper nutty flavor.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 simple ingredients required to make this cheese ball.
Can I shape this into something other than a ball?
Yes, you can shape the mixture into a log or even press it into a small bowl lined with plastic wrap to create a mold.