Are you planning a gathering or a romantic dinner for two? A cheese ball appetizer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
It is a classic party appetizer that everyone loves. They’re easy to make, delicious, and versatile. But what do you serve with cheese balls?
Sure, crackers and bread are always good options, but if you’re looking for something a bit more delicious, keep reading.
In this blog post, I’ll share some of my favorite side dish ideas for your next party or get-together that will make your cheese balls shine.
Here is a Quick solution for what to serve with cheese balls – Fresh Fruit Platter, Veggie Tray, Charcuterie Board, Bruschetta, Garlic Bread, Fruit Skewers, Mini Quiches, Potato Salad, Bruschetta, Pizza, Nachos, Macaroni and Cheese, Salads, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Cheese Fondue, Cheeseburger Sliders, French Toast Sticks, Quesadillas, Tacos, Egg Rolls, Potato Skins, Ravioli Lasagna Bake, Baked Potato Wedges, Soup Bowls.
What are cheese balls? What do cheese balls taste like?
Cheese balls are bite-sized snacks made with shredded cheese and other ingredients that are shaped into round ball shapes.
They can be seasoned in a variety of ways to give them a unique flavor, including herbs and spices such as garlic powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or oregano.
Cheese balls typically have a crunchy exterior and soft, creamy interior. Depending on the recipe and type of cheese used, they can range from mild to sharp in flavor.
Some popular types of cheese used for making cheese balls include cheddar, parmesan, Swiss and Gruyere.
Cheese balls make an excellent snack or hors d’oeuvre when served with crackers or breads such as baguettes.
For a fun presentation, consider using a cheese baller to shape the balls before baking. Cheese balls are best served warmly from the oven with plenty of dipping sauce!
Cheese balls may also be deep-fried as an alternative preparation method. When deep-fried, they have a crispier exterior and even more gooey interior.
To make sure they stay crunchy on the outside, it’s best to let them cool completely after frying before serving.
Deep-fried cheese balls can be served plain or alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch dressing or honey mustard.
More: Creative Side Dishes to Serve with Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs
Best side dishes to serve with cheese balls
1. Fresh Fruit Platter
Fruits are the perfect partner for cheese balls. They add color and contrast to the cheese and crackers.
You can choose a variety of fruits like strawberries, grapes, kiwis, oranges, and pineapples. Arrange the fruits on a platter and place your cheese ball in the center.
This side dish is not only delicious, but it also creates an eye-catching presentation.
2. Veggie Tray
If you’re looking for a healthy side dish to go with your cheese ball, a veggie tray is the way to go. Sliced cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and celery are great options.
You can also add some hummus or ranch dip for extra flavor.
This side dish adds a refreshing crunch to your cheese ball, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
3. Charcuterie Board
I just love charcuterie board to eat with a cheese ball. It is a stylish and trendy way to serve your cheese ball. You can add some salami, prosciutto, and olives to your cheese and crackers for a more elegant look.
This side dish is perfect for a dinner party or a romantic evening for two. It’s also a great way to impress your guests.
4. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that pairs well with cheese balls. You can top your bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil for a simple and delicious side dish.
You can also add some balsamic glaze or mozzarella cheese for extra flavor. This side dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch.
5. Garlic Bread
My other favorite Garlic bread is a classic side dish that goes well with any appetizer, including cheese balls.
Toast the bread and spread some garlic butter on top. This side dish is a crowd-pleaser and will make your cheese ball even more satisfying.
You can make your own garlic bread or buy it from the store.
6. Fruit Skewers
You can’t go wrong with a fresh fruit skewer! This is the perfect side dish to match with cheese balls as it complements the savory flavor of the cheese with the sweetness of the fruit.
Cut up some strawberries, kiwis, grapes, and pineapple, and put them on a skewer. You could even drizzle some honey over the skewers for an extra touch of sweetness.
7. Mini Quiches
If you’re looking for a more substantial side dish, mini quiches are just mouthwatering. These bite-sized quiches are easy to make, and you can fill them with any ingredients you like.
Try filling them with spinach, ham, and cheese, or bacon and cheese. They’re the perfect savory side dish to serve with cheese balls.
8. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side dish that goes well with a variety of foods, including cheese balls. Most importantly, it is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
You can add different ingredients to your potato salad, such as boiled eggs, onions, and celery, to give it more flavor.
9. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is another great side dish, and I always welcome it to my kitchen to serve with cheese balls. It’s easy to make and takes only a few ingredients.
All you need is some sliced bread, garlic, olive oil, and diced tomatoes. Toast the bread, rub it with garlic, and then top it with the tomato mixture. It’s crunchy, savory, and delicious.
10. Pizza
There’s nothing like the classic combination of cheese balls and pizza – savory, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious!
The warm cheese balls match the crunchy crust of a freshly baked pizza and create an irresistible flavor combination.
11. Nachos
The ultimate party food just got better with the addition of cheese balls! They add a savory crunch to the already delicious mix of chips, melted cheese, and other toppings.
Plus, you can easily customize your nachos by adding different sauces or additional toppings for a unique twist on this classic dish.
12. Macaroni and Cheese
If you’re looking for a cheesy feast, macaroni and cheese is always a winner – and it’s even better when combined with cheese balls!
Try mixing in some diced tomatoes or spinach to get even more flavor out of this favorite dish.
13. Salads
My other favorite Cheese balls are an unexpected yet tasty addition to salads! Top off your fresh greens with these bite-sized pieces of cheesy goodness for added texture and flavor that you won’t soon forget.
14. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Add some extra cheesy crunch to your next grilled cheese sandwich by adding in some cheese balls!
Not only will they add texture to your sandwich, but they also have a big boost in flavor that is sure to take your grilled cheese game up a notch.
15. Cheese Fondue
This is just the perfect addition to eat with cheese balls. It’s easy, too – all you need to do is melt some delicious cheeses together in a fondue pot, then add some cheese balls for added crunchy goodness!
Serve with slices of baguette, vegetables, or fruits for an indulgent experience no one will soon forget.
16. Cheeseburger Sliders
Take your sliders up a notch by adding some crispy yet creamy bits of cheesy perfection – aka cheese balls!
Pile them high onto small buns along with tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, ketchup and/or mustard for an utterly delightful mini-burger experience that won’t soon be forgotten by anyone lucky enough to taste them!
17. French Toast Sticks
French Toast Sticks is something sweet yet savory at the same time – So you must try it with cheese balls!
Dip each piece into the egg mixture before frying it up until it’s golden brown, then dip into syrup or dust with confectioners’ sugar before sprinkling over some salty bites of cheesy bliss as the perfect topping – yum!
18. Quesadillas
All quesadillas are tasty, but why not kick yours up a notch by adding in some crispy little bits of cheesy goodness?
Simply sprinkle them over the top before folding over the quesadilla for added texture that pairs perfectly with the gooey melted cheese inside – perfection indeed!
19. Tacos
Give tacos night a fun twist by rolling up juicy ground beef or chicken inside soft tortillas, then sprinkling them liberally with crispy little bits of cheesy heaven – aka cheese balls!
Top off tacos made this way with whatever condiments you prefer, like salsa or sour cream, then enjoy every delectable bite guilt-free (and mess-free!).
20. Egg Rolls
Make traditional Chinese egg rolls even more delicious (and fun!) by tucking inside generous amounts of diced cheddar plus pieces of buttery goodness known as…you guessed it – Cheese Balls!!
Fry each piece until golden brown and dip away in your favorite sauce for maximum results every time (trust us).
21. Potato Skins
You can transform potato skins from ordinary to extraordinary simply by sprinkling on top generous amounts of finely diced cheddar plus those trusty little friends known as Cheese Balls!!
Bake until golden brown, then serve with sour cream and chives for a truly tempting potato experience that everyone will love (including yourself!).
22. Ravioli Lasagna Bake
Enjoy lasagna without all the work involved simply by layering pre-made ravioli topped generously with shredded mozzarella.
Bake until golden brown, then serve alongside garlic breadsticks and Caesar salad for maximum results every time (trust us).
23. Baked Potato Wedges
I know you love potatoes, and you can make potato wedges even more special simply by sprinkling on top generous amounts of finely grated Parmesan.
Bake until golden brown, then serve alongside ranch dressing or ketchup, depending on personal preference (we think both are perfect!).
24. Soup Bowls
Make soup bowls full of flavor simply by stirring in generous amounts of shredded Cheddar.
Heat through until hot, then enjoy every spoonful alongside crunchy crackers or toasted crostinis – the perfect meal for you any time of day!
Enjoy! Bon Appetit!
What are the best flavors to go with cheese balls?
Cheese balls are a classic snack that can be enjoyed with a variety of flavors. Depending on your tastes, you may want to pair your cheese ball with something sweet, spicy, or tangy. Here are some flavor ideas for the perfect cheese ball:
– Spicy and Sweet: For a fun twist on the traditional cheese ball, try mixing in jalapeno peppers and adding a coating of brown sugar or honey.
– Classic BBQ: If you’re looking for something more traditional, then mix in some cheddar and top it off with your favorite barbecue seasoning.
– Tangy Mustard: Give your cheese ball an extra kick by adding in some prepared mustard before rolling it in chopped pecans.
– Italian Herbs: Mix together some mozzarella, fontina, and Parmesan cheese with oregano, basil, and garlic powder for an Italian twist.
– Cranberry Apricot: For a refreshingly sweet cheese ball, mix in dried cranberries and diced apricots before rolling it up in your favorite nuts.
Enjoy experimenting with all the different flavors that go great with cheese balls. With so many delicious possibilities, you can never get bored of this classic snack!
How do you jazz up cheese balls?
There are so many ways to jazz up cheese balls! Here are some creative ideas:
1. Roll the cheese ball in chopped nuts, seeds, or dried herbs for a flavorful crunch.
2. Add your favorite spices to the cheese mixture before rolling them into balls; garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder and smoked paprika all work well.
3. Top each cheese ball with a piece of crispy bacon for added flavor and texture.
4. Serve the cheese balls on top of crackers or crudités for an easy appetizer platter.
5. Create different flavors by adding finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the mixture before forming it into a ball.
6. Roll the cheese balls in crushed pretzels or crackers for a salty crunch.
7. Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the cheese ball for a sweet and savory treat.
8. Add a layer of cream cheese to the outside of each ball before rolling it in chopped nuts or herbs for extra richness and flavor.
9. Serve the cheese balls with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce, on the side for an interactive appetizer experience!
10. For another twist on texture, roll each cheese ball in shredded coconut before chilling them! The combination of creamy and crunchy is sure to be a hit.
How do you display cheese balls on a platter?
To display cheese balls on a platter, arrange them in an attractive pattern. Start by grouping the cheese balls together in clusters of three or four, depending on the size of your platter.
If you have larger cheese balls, use fewer per cluster. Place the clusters around the edge of the platter to form a ring, and then fill in any gaps with smaller pieces.
For added visual appeal, add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, between each cluster.
Lastly, garnish the center of the platter with some colorful edible decorations like fresh fruit or olives for a unique presentation. Enjoy!
Conclusion on what to serve with cheese balls
In conclusion, a cheese ball is a versatile appetizer that can be served in many different ways. Pair it with any of these delicious side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a romantic evening for two, these side dishes will add flavor and elegance to your cheese ball appetizer.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different side dishes that suit your taste and style. Have fun and bon appétit!
FAQs on what to serve with cheese balls
Q1. How many cheese balls per person?
The amount of cheese balls per person depends on a few factors, such as how many people will be eating them and how hungry they are. Generally, two or three cheese balls are enough for one person if they are served as part of a larger meal, while four to six can serve as an appetizer.
If you plan on serving cheese balls as the main event, then eight to twelve per person should suffice. Remember that you can always make extra cheese balls so you can have leftovers!
Q2. What kind of crackers to serve with a cheese ball?
When it comes to serving crackers with a cheese ball, there are many options. Popular types of crackers you can serve include toasted sesame seed, buttery round, multi-grain, and saltine. You can also get creative by using flavored crackers such as garlic, onion, or herb-flavored ones. Of course, the classic plain water cracker is always an excellent choice too.
Depending on the type of cheese ball you make and the flavors you use in it, choose the type of cracker which best complements its flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting with different varieties of crackers until you find that perfect combination for your cheese ball!
Q3. What fruit goes with cheese and crackers?
Many fruits go great with cheese and crackers. Popular choices include apples, pears, grapes, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and figs. These fruits add sweetness and texture to the salty crunch of the crackers and the creamy richness of the cheese. Fresh fruit is often best, but for convenience, dried fruit or canned fruit can work too.
If you want something a bit different, try melon, such as honeydew or cantaloupe. Oranges are always popular as they pair well with savory flavors like cheese and sweet flavors like honey or jam. Whichever type of fruit you opt for, it’s sure to be a delicious combination! Enjoy!
