Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball

This Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the creamy richness of softened cream cheese with the intense, savory punch of sun-dried tomatoes. Enhanced with Parmesan and a touch of butter, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It&# 226;ÂÂs an elegant yet simple addition to any party platter, holiday gathering, or casual get-together. The vibrant red color makes it visually stunning when garnished with fresh basil. Serve with your favorite crackers or sliced baguette for a delicious, easy-to-prepare starter that feels sophisticated but requires minimal effort.

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Courses: Appetisers

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 8

Calories: 27.0

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian

Description

This Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the creamy richness of softened cream cheese with the intense, savory punch of sun-dried tomatoes. Enhanced with Parmesan and a touch of butter, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It&# 226;ÂÂs an elegant yet simple addition to any party platter, holiday gathering, or casual get-together. The vibrant red color makes it visually stunning when garnished with fresh basil. Serve with your favorite crackers or sliced baguette for a delicious, easy-to-prepare starter that feels sophisticated but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

3 ounces Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
2 tablespoons Olive oil
8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
8 ounces Unsalted butter, softened
0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups Fresh basil leaves

Directions

1
Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
2
Submerge the sun-dried tomatoes in the boiling water for 3 minutes to soften them, then drain well.
3
Set aside 4 softened tomatoes and slice them into thin strips for garnish; chop the remaining tomatoes finely.
4
In a food processor, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
5
Process the mixture until completely smooth and well combined.
6
Transfer the cheese mixture to a plate or bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle.
7
Remove from the refrigerator and shape the mixture into a ball with your hands.
8
Place the cheese ball on a serving platter.
9
Arrange the fresh basil leaves and reserved tomato strips around the cheese ball in a decorative sunburst pattern.
10
Serve immediately with crackers or sliced baguette.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 27.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.3g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 7.5mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 5.8g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.8g8%
Sugars 3.9g
Protein 1.4g3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Substitutions: You can use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for best flavor. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water first.

Variations: Add a teaspoon of minced garlic or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.

Tip: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.

Keywords: appetizer, cheese ball, sun-dried tomato, party food, cream cheese, parmesan, basil, crackers, mediterranean, holiday appetizer, easy recipe, make ahead

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/sun-dried-tomato-cheese-ball/