Get ready to transform your appetizer game with the most irresistible Tomato Basil Cheese Ball that will have your guests begging for the recipe! This isn't just another cheese spread - it's a creamy, herbaceous masterpiece that combines the rich tang of cream cheese, the sharpness of cheddar, and the vibrant punch of fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for parties, game nights, or when you simply want to elevate your snacking experience, this cheese ball is about to become your new culinary secret weapon.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, 1/4 tsp of salt, 1/4 tsp of black pepper, and 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts (if using).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend them together until well combined and creamy.
- Add the chopped fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- If you are using walnuts, add the chopped walnuts to the mixture and fold them in gently.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to shape it into a ball. You can make it as large or as small as you prefer, but a medium-sized ball is ideal for serving.
- To enhance the presentation, you can roll the cheese ball in additional chopped walnuts or fresh basil, if desired.
- Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
- Before serving, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to spread.
- Serve the Tomato Basil Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread for dipping.
- Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Tomato Basil Cheese Ball with family and friends!
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest, most spreadable texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, toast your walnuts lightly before chopping and adding to the mixture.
- Make this cheese ball up to 2 days in advance - the flavors actually improve as they meld together in the refrigerator.
- For a beautiful presentation, roll the exterior in finely chopped fresh herbs or additional chopped nuts.
- Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to achieve the perfect spreadable consistency.
- Experiment with different herb combinations or swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
