We love how a classic cheese ball brings people together at gatherings, and our version with deviled ham adds a savory twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect blend of creamy cheese and zesty ham that elevates this easy appetizer to new heights.
Originating from American party traditions, we’ve updated this timeless favorite to make it even more irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday bash or a casual get-together, our cheese ball recipe promises bold flavors that are simple to prepare and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
In our Cheese Ball Recipe with Deviled Ham, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a creamy, zesty appetizer that elevates any gathering. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for optimal results.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (1 package), softened at room temperature to ensure easy mixing as the base of our cheese ball.
- Deviled Ham: 4.5 ounces (1 can), drained to add that bold, savory twist that makes this recipe irresistible.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, finely shredded for a sharp, melty contrast that enhances the cheese ball’s texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon, for a tangy depth of flavor that ties the ingredients together.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground if possible, to infuse a pungent aroma and taste.
- Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon, to provide a subtle, sweet undertone without overwhelming the mix.
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup, finely chopped, for a fresh, crisp element that adds visual appeal and crunch.
- Chopped Pecans: 1/2 cup, toasted for the outer coating, delivering a nutty crunch that complements the creamy interior.
This combination promises a bold flavor profile that’s simple yet sophisticated, perfect for our Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients for this Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham, let’s guide you through the simple steps to create a creamy, zesty appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing, it’s essential to prepare our ingredients for optimal results. Start by softening the cream cheese—let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency that ensures easy blending. Next, finely chop the green onions to release their fresh, pungent aroma, yielding about 1/4 cup for a vibrant pop of color and flavor. If your pecans aren’t already toasted, spread 1/2 cup of them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant, adding a nutty crunch to our cheese ball.
Mixing the Ingredients
With our prep complete, we begin combining the elements to form the heart of this Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese (8 ounces) and drained deviled ham (one 4.5-ounce can) then use a hand mixer on medium speed to blend until smooth and creamy, incorporating the rich, savory notes of the ham. Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup), Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon), garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon), and onion powder (1/2 teaspoon) until fully integrated, creating a bold, zesty mixture that tantalizes with its sharp cheese tang and subtle spice. Finally, fold in the chopped green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Shaping and Chilling
Once mixed, we shape our Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham into a stunning centerpiece. Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and use your hands to form it into a ball, about 4 inches in diameter, ensuring it’s compact yet smooth to the touch. Roll the ball in the toasted pecans (1/2 cup) to coat evenly, adding a delightful nutty texture that contrasts the creamy interior. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—or up to overnight—to firm up the mixture, allowing the flavors to meld into a irresistible, bold harmony ready for serving.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Cheese Ball Recipe with Deviled Ham to life, we rely on a few essential tools that make preparation smooth and efficient. These items ensure accuracy in mixing, shaping, and chilling, allowing us to create a creamy, zesty appetizer with minimal fuss.
Here’s a detailed list of the key tools and equipment we recommend:
- Large mixing bowl: We use this as the base for blending our softened cream cheese, deviled ham, and other ingredients to achieve a uniform, creamy texture.
- Electric hand mixer or sturdy wooden spoon: For thoroughly combining the cheese mixture, we opt for an electric mixer to save time or a spoon for a hands-on approach, ensuring even distribution of flavors like garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is crucial in our recipe, so we always use these to measure ingredients precisely—such as 8 ounces of cream cheese or 1 teaspoon of onion powder—for consistent results every time.
- Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board: We employ these for finely chopping green onions and pecans, which adds a fresh crunch to the outer coating of our cheese ball.
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper: This helps us wrap and chill the shaped cheese ball in the refrigerator, allowing the bold flavors to meld perfectly over a couple of hours.
- Spatula or rubber scraper: We find this indispensable for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and transferring the mixture without waste.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process from mixing to serving, making our Cheese Ball Recipe with Deviled Ham an effortless hit for any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Cheese Ball Recipe with Deviled Ham is its flexibility for busy schedules. We love how this appetizer can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to deepen and making it a stress-free option for gatherings. Below, we break down the steps to make and store your cheese ball effectively, ensuring it remains creamy, zesty, and ready to impress.
Preparing and Storing the Cheese Ball
Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to prepare your cheese ball ahead of time:
- Mix and Shape in Advance: After blending the softened cream cheese, deviled ham, shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and finely chopped green onions as outlined in our previous steps, shape the mixture into a ball. We recommend coating it immediately with the toasted chopped pecans for added texture and flavor protection.
- Chill for Flavor Development: Wrap the shaped cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to firm up and let the bold, savory flavors meld. This chilling process enhances the creamy texture and zesty ham notes, making every bite even more irresistible.
- Storage Guidelines: For short-term storage, keep the cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to extend its shelf life, freeze it for longer periods. Here’s a quick overview of storage times and tips in table form for easy reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store wrapped to prevent drying; thaw in fridge if needed. |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Double-wrap in plastic and foil; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the creamy consistency. |
- Thawing and Serving: When you’re ready to serve, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This allows the Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham to soften slightly, revealing its rich, tangy profile that pairs perfectly with crackers or veggies at your next gathering.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we ensure your Cheese Ball Recipe with Deviled Ham stays fresh and flavorful, turning prep time into party time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this cheese ball recipe with deviled ham as a fresh take on a timeless favorite. It’s the perfect way to add excitement to your next gathering without much fuss.
Our tips help you create something that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare ahead.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham?
A Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham is a creamy, savory appetizer that updates the classic cheese ball by adding zesty deviled ham. It’s perfect for parties, holidays, or casual gatherings, combining softened cream cheese, cheddar, and spices for a bold flavor that brings people together.
What ingredients are needed for Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham?
You’ll need softened cream cheese, drained deviled ham, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, finely chopped green onions, and toasted chopped pecans. These high-quality ingredients create a simple yet sophisticated mix for a delicious, creamy appetizer.
How do you prepare Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham?
Start by softening the cream cheese and blending it with deviled ham. Add shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped green onions. Mix well, shape into a ball, coat with toasted pecans, and chill for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld, making it ready for any occasion.
What tools are required for this recipe?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, an electric hand mixer or wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board, plastic wrap or parchment paper, and a spatula. These help ensure accurate mixing, shaping, and chilling for an effortless preparation.
Can I make Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Mix, shape, and coat the cheese ball, then chill it for at least 2 hours to enhance flavors. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving to keep it fresh and tasty for your gathering.
How should I store the Cheese Ball with Deviled Ham?
Refrigerate the cheese ball wrapped in plastic or parchment for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to maintain its creamy texture and bold flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for parties and holidays?
Absolutely, it’s an easy-to-make appetizer that adds a savory twist to traditional party fare. Its creamy cheese and zesty ham combination makes it a crowd-pleaser for holidays, casual get-togethers, or any event, helping to create memorable moments with minimal effort.