Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible Black Olive Cheese Ball that's about to become the star of every gathering! Imagine a creamy, savory sensation that combines the rich tang of sharp cheddar, the bold flavor of black olives, and a hint of zesty garlic – all rolled into one incredible, crowd-pleasing bite. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated cocktail party or a casual game night, this cheese ball is your secret weapon to instant culinary fame.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped black olives, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (if using), 1 tsp of garlic powder, and 1 tsp of Worcestershire sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped black olives, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. If you are using nuts, add them at this stage as well. Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to shape it into a ball. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly wet your hands with water to make shaping easier.
- After forming the cheese ball, you can roll it in additional chopped nuts if desired, ensuring the nuts coat the outside evenly for added texture and flavor.
- Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and makes the cheese ball easier to slice or spread.
- When ready to serve, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will soften it slightly for easier spreading.
- Serve the black olive cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced vegetables, or bread. Enjoy your delicious appetizer with friends and family!
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest blend possible. Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy texture.
- For the most intense flavor, use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese and freshly chopped black olives.
- If you want extra crunch, toast your chopped nuts before rolling the cheese ball for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Make this cheese ball ahead of time! It actually tastes better after chilling for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- For a stunning presentation, try rolling half the ball in chopped nuts and leaving the other half plain for a beautiful two-tone effect.
- If the mixture is too soft to form a ball, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
- Experiment with different nut varieties like pecans, almonds, or walnuts to customize your cheese ball's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
