Description
Nostalgic “creamy retro ham and cheddar party ball” delivers classic comfort with a playful twist. Retro appetizer perfection invites guests to savor rich, creamy flavors that dance between comfort and celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (5 ounces / 142 grams) can flaked ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 heaping tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup finely diced green onion
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Seasonings:
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 drops hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Thoroughly blend cream cheese, ham, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, green onion, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and half the cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and uniform.
- Taste the mixture, seasoning with freshly ground pepper and adjusting flavors as needed for balanced taste profile.
- Arrange plastic wrap in a cross formation on a clean surface, then transfer the creamy mixture to the center, carefully wrapping and molding into a compact spherical shape.
- Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for 4 hours minimum, allowing ingredients to meld and texture to firm up completely.
- Remove from refrigerator and unwrap, then generously coat the entire exterior with remaining shredded cheddar cheese, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage.
- Return to refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to set the cheese coating and enhance flavor integration.
- Present on a decorative platter alongside crisp crackers, thinly sliced baguette, or crunchy pita chips for elegant entertaining.
- Refrigerate any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container, consuming within 4 days for optimal freshness and taste.
Notes
- Adapt the heat level by adjusting hot sauce or adding chili flakes for spice lovers who want an extra kick.
- Swap out regular cheddar for smoked cheddar to elevate the flavor profile and add depth to the party ball.
- Consider using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier version without compromising taste.
- For gluten-sensitive guests, serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks as alternative dipping options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg