FIRST STEP:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth
Gently fold in the vegetables
SECOND STEP:
Add the seasonings
Add ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Gather the Ingredients
Make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. This will make the preparation process smooth and efficient.
Drain the Pineapple
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to remove excess juice. This prevents the cheeseball from becoming too watery.
Combine Cream Cheese and Pineapple
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and drained pineapple. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated.
Add Cheese and Onions
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped green onions to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Season the Mixture
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as the cheddar cheese already adds a bit of saltiness.
Shape the Cheeseball
Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the mixture and shape it into a ball. Ensure it’s tightly packed.
Chill the Cheeseball
Place the cheeseball in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow it to firm up. This makes it easier to handle and enhances the flavors.
Prepare the Nuts
While the cheeseball is chilling, chop the pecans or walnuts finely. Spread them out on a plate or shallow dish.
Coat the Cheeseball
Once the cheeseball is firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Unwrap it and roll it in the chopped nuts until it is evenly coated on all sides.
Serve
Place the cheeseball on a serving platter and surround it with your choice of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies. Enjoy!
How to Make
Softening the Cream Cheese
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. Softened cream cheese is easier to mix and ensures a smoother texture.
Draining Pineapple Thoroughly
Use a fine mesh strainer to drain the pineapple, pressing lightly to remove as much juice as possible. Excess moisture can make the cheeseball too runny.
Mixing Techniques
Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix the ingredients. Ensure the cream cheese and pineapple are well blended before adding other components.
Even Distribution
Stir in the shredded cheese and onions gradually to ensure even distribution throughout the mixture. This prevents clumps and ensures every bite has balanced flavor.
Adjusting Seasonings
Taste the mixture before shaping it into a ball. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of the cheese.
Shaping the Cheeseball
Use plastic wrap to shape the cheeseball. This keeps your hands clean and helps to create a smooth, round shape.
Chilling Time
Chilling for at least an hour is crucial for firming up the cheeseball. If you’re short on time, place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes, but avoid freezing it completely.
Chopping Nuts
Finely chop the nuts for coating. Smaller pieces stick better to the cheeseball and create a more uniform appearance.
Coating Evenly
Roll the firmed cheeseball in the chopped nuts, pressing gently to ensure they adhere. Cover the entire surface for a crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the cheeseball on a decorative platter. Surround it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies for an attractive presentation.
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