Bacon, Cheddar and Swiss Cheese Ball

 

Total Time

Prep Time: 20 min. + chilling

  Makes

2 cheese balls (4 cups each)

When it’s time for a party, everyone always requests this ultimate cheese ball—it’s such an impressive appetizer. And if you’re a party guest, it makes a fabulous gift for your hosts.

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (about 12 strips), divided
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted, divided
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 jar (2 ounces) diced pimientos, drained
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Assorted crackers

Directions

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in shredded cheeses, 1/2 cup bacon, 1/4 cup pecans, onion, pimientos, pickle relish, salt and pepper. Refrigerate, covered, at least 1 hour.
2. In a small bowl, mix parsley, poppy seeds and remaining bacon and pecans. Spread half the parsley mixture on a large plate. Shape half the cheese mixture into a ball; roll in parsley mixture to coat evenly. Cover. Repeat to make another cheese ball. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Serve with crackers.

Nutrition Facts

2 tablespoons: 116 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 194mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.