Senior Care in Indianapolis, IN – April 17 is National Cheese Ball Day!

When most people think of cheese balls the first thing that comes to mind are the bright red port wine-flavored versions that feature on Thanksgiving and Christmas snack tables. Just because they usually show up around the holidays, however, does not mean your family cannot enjoy these treats at other times of the year. In fact, April 17 is National Cheese Ball Day, the perfect opportunity for you to indulge in some savory snacks with your elderly parents.

This senior care recipe is for a delicious southern spin on traditional cheese balls. Made in miniature, these cheese balls are a bite-size snack perfect for popping in your mouth on their own or enjoying with crackers. The flavor is rich and savory, with a special twist that sets them apart from the usual taste you expect from the holiday versions.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 8 ounces shredded extra sharp Cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons chopped drained pimentos
• 1 teaspoon grated onion
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Spoon
• Baking sheet
• Waxed paper
• Plastic wrap

What to Do

• Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature

• Place the cream cheese in the large mixing bowl and press with a rubber spatula until smooth and soft

• Add mayonnaise and mix until well-combined

• Add shredded cheeses and stir until combined

• Add remaining ingredients and combine thoroughly

• Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as you mix to full incorporate all of the ingredients

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 days

• Chop the pecans finely and put them in the medium mixing bowl

• Line the baking sheet with waxed paper

• Remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator and use the cookie scoop to evenly portion out small balls

• Use your hands to shape the portions into even balls and roll them in the pecans until they are fully coated

• Place the balls on the waxed paper and chill for another 10 minutes or until ready to serve, up to 3 days

These tiny pimento cheese balls are delicious served on their own or with crackers, try some of these variations for a personalized snack creation:

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise for a lower-calorie and lower-fat version

• Add in chopped jalapenos for a pop of spicy flavor

• Use Pepper Jack cheese for extra spice

• Replace the Monterey Jack cheese with mozzarella and the extra sharp Cheddar with sharp or mild Cheddar for a softer flavor

• Add in a dash or two of Worcestershire sauce for a richer, more rounded flavor

• Instead of rolling the cheese into small balls and covering them with nuts, spread the cheese mixture onto bread and lightly pan fry it with butter for an unexpected, delectable twist on a grilled cheese sandwich

• Use the entire mixture to create one large cheese ball and roll in the pecans for an appetizer or snack to serve with crackers

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is a non medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in Indianapolis, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.