If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that’s both flavorful and easy to make, this Cheese Ball with Ham and Green Onion recipe is a must-try. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this cheese ball combines creamy cheese, savory ham, and the fresh zing of green onions for an irresistible bite.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can prepare ahead of time and serve with your favorite crackers or veggies. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a versatile dish that everyone will love.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Not only does this cheese ball taste amazing, but it also brings a touch of homemade charm to your table, making any occasion feel special. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham and add a pop of color and flavor with green onions.
Let’s dive into why this recipe is a winner and how you can make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheese Ball with Ham and Green Onion is an all-time favorite for several reasons. First, the creamy cheese base blended with chopped ham creates a rich, savory taste that’s utterly satisfying.
The green onions add a crisp freshness that brightens up the dish, preventing it from being too heavy.
It’s incredibly versatile — serve it as a party appetizer with crackers, use it as a sandwich spread, or enjoy it with fresh vegetables for a lighter snack. The recipe is simple and quick, requiring no special equipment or advanced cooking skills.
It also keeps well in the fridge, so you can prepare it a day ahead, making your entertaining stress-free.
And if you love trying new recipes, you might also enjoy exploring some other delicious recipes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for your next culinary adventure.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked ham
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (white and green parts)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for coating)
- Crackers or sliced veggies, for serving
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Small plate or bowl (for nuts)
- Knife and chopping board
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Finely chop the ham and green onions. Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwaving it for 10 seconds.
- Combine the cheeses: In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until smooth and well combined.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the chopped ham, green onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the cheese ball: Using your hands, form the cheese mixture into a ball. The mixture will be soft, so work gently to keep the shape intact.
- Coat with nuts (optional): Spread chopped pecans or walnuts on a small plate. Roll the cheese ball in the nuts until fully coated. This adds a lovely crunch and enhances the flavor.
- Wrap and chill: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
- Serve: Remove from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Tips & Variations
For a milder cheese ball, substitute half the cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Want to spice it up?
Add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños for a kick. You can also swap the ham for cooked bacon or smoked turkey for a different smoky flavor.
Make it vegetarian: Omit the ham and add extra green onions and some finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Nut-free option: If you have nut allergies, roll the cheese ball in finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives, or even crushed crackers.
Storage: This cheese ball keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep it tightly wrapped to preserve freshness.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 2 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is ideal as an appetizer or party snack. Serve it with an assortment of crackers like water crackers, multigrain, or rye crisps for a crunchy contrast.
Fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers also pair wonderfully, offering a fresh crunch.
For a more substantial snack, try spreading it on toasted baguette slices or using it as a filling for small sandwiches or wraps. It also pairs nicely with a glass of chilled white wine or a light beer, making it perfect for entertaining guests.
If you enjoy easy and tasty recipes like this one, check out other crowd-pleasers such as Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide or Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious to expand your appetizer repertoire.
Conclusion
This Cheese Ball with Ham and Green Onion recipe is an easy, flavorful addition to any appetizer table. Its rich creaminess combined with the savory ham and fresh green onions creates a perfect balance that’s sure to please family and friends alike.
Whether you’re preparing for a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this cheese ball offers a touch of homemade comfort and sophistication.
Preparation is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, with options for customization and substitutions, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your taste and dietary needs.
Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite dippers and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!
For more delicious and creative recipes, explore our collection including Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide or Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Cheese Ball with Ham and Green Onion
Description: A savory cheese ball combining sharp cheddar, diced ham, and fresh green onions. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for rolling)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Mix in diced ham, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Shape mixture into a ball using your hands.
- Roll cheese ball in chopped pecans and parsley if desired.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 8g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 2g
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