Port Wine Cheese Ball
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and flavorful Port Wine Cheese Ball, a crowd-pleasing creation that's perfect for holiday gatherings, casual parties, or elegant dinner spreads. Made with a creamy blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, this recipe gets a sophisticated twist from a splash of port wine and the savory depth of Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika. Rolled in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and optionally garnished with fresh parsley, this cheese ball is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep time (plus a quick chill), it's a fuss-free appetizer that pairs beautifully with crackers or crisp vegetable sticks. Make this easy cheese ball ahead of time for stress-free entertaining that wows every guest!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz Cream cheese
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tbsp Port wine
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp Paprika
- 1 cup Pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Crackers or vegetable sticks (for serving)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the cream cheese to soften to room temperature for easier mixing.
Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat the cream cheese and cheddar until well combined and smooth.
Add the port wine, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Place a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on the counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center and shape it into a ball using the wrap to help form it.
Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm and easy to handle.
Spread the chopped pecans or walnuts on a plate or flat surface. Roll the chilled cheese ball in the nuts, pressing gently to ensure they adhere evenly to the surface.
If desired, sprinkle the cheese ball with chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
Transfer the finished cheese ball to a serving platter and serve with crackers or vegetable sticks on the side.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
346 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.8 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.8 g | 74% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 74 mg | 25% | |
| Sodium | 319 mg | 14% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 6.7 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.6 g | ||
| Protein | 10.0 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 217 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 134 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
