Mexican Cheese Balls

Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.

Finely chop the bell pepper, pimiento, and onion for a smoother texture.

Adjust the salt to taste, especially if you're adding other salty ingredients.

Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cheese balls.

Roll the cheese balls gently in the nuts to coat them lightly and evenly.

Serve with a variety of crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.

Add fresh chopped cilantro or parsley to the nuts for added color in the coating.

Try different nut coatings for variety.

Serve these cheese balls as an appetizer or part of a cheese platter.

Can I use more cheese?

Yes, you can blend the cream cheese with grated cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor and texture. Make sure the cheese is finely and freshly grated (do not use pre-shredded cheese).

What can I substitute for pimiento?

You can use roasted red peppers as a substitute for pimiento.

Is it necessary to let the cheese balls come to room temperature before serving?

Allowing them to come to room temperature makes them easier to spread on crackers.

Can I add other ingredients to the cheese mixture?

Yes, you can add ingredients like jalapenos, cilantro, or spices as desired.

How long should I refrigerate the cheese balls?

Refrigerate them for at least 1 hour or until they are firm enough to hold their shape.

What can I use instead of pecans?

You can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for a different texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these cheese balls?

Yes, you can freeze them without the nut coating. Thaw in the refrigerator and roll in nuts before serving.

Can I make these cheese balls in advance?

Yes, you can make them a day or two in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving. If you are using something other than nuts for the coating you may want to hold off rolling them in the coating until you are ready to serve them as alternate coatings may get soggy.

Mixing Bowl: For combining the softened cream cheese, chopped green bell pepper, pimiento, minced onion, and salt to make the cheese ball mixture. Make sure the bowl is large enough to easily mix the ingredients together.

Shallow Dish: For holding the crushed nuts, making it easy to roll the cheese balls in them.

Plate or Tray: For rolling the cheese mixture into balls and then coating them with the crushed pecans or other nuts. The plate or tray should have enough space for all the cheese balls to be placed without touching.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the bell pepper, pimiento, onion, and pecans.

Guacamole: the creamy, cheesy goodness of the cheese balls will pair perfectly with the fresh, tangy flavors of guacamole on the appetizer table. The smooth texture of the guac will be a nice contrast to the crunchy nuts on the cheese balls.

Spicy Salsa: add a kick to your cheesy bites by serving them with a spicy salsa. The heat from the salsa will balance out the creamy richness of the cheese balls. Try this canning salsa and always have some on hand!

Margaritas: wash down your cheese balls with a refreshing margarita. The zesty lime and tequila flavors will complement the cheesy goodness.

Chili Lime Corn Chips: create a fun twist on chips and dip by serving the cheese balls with chili lime corn chips.

Mexican-Inspired Charcuterie Board: Add these cheese balls along with Chorizo slices, manchego cheese, jalapeno slices, guacamole, roasted corn, tortilla chips, black bean dip, queso fresco, marinated olives, pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and spicy peanuts.