Description
Bruschetta cheese ball brings Mediterranean flavors to classic party appetizers. Creamy herbed cheese mingles with fresh tomatoes and basil, creating an irresistible blend you’ll crave at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12.35 ounces (350 grams) cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese mix (mozzarella, parmesan)
- ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, divided
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Coating and Garnish:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- ½ cup olives, chopped
Instructions
- Create a harmonious flavor base by thoroughly blending cream cheese with shredded cheese, incorporating finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic basil, briny olives, pungent garlic, earthy oregano, and balanced seasoning until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture.
- Gently form the fragrant cheese mixture into a compact, rounded sphere, ensuring uniform shape and density.
- Tightly encase the cheese ball in plastic wrap, allowing it to firm and meld flavors in the refrigerator for a minimum of half an hour.
- Toast panko breadcrumbs in a skillet over medium heat, stirring consistently until they transform into a golden, crispy coating with a nutty aroma.
- Carefully unwrap the chilled cheese ball and meticulously roll its surface in the toasted breadcrumbs, applying gentle pressure to ensure complete and even coverage.
- Artfully decorate the exterior with the remaining diced sun-dried tomatoes and delicate fresh basil leaves, creating a visually appealing presentation.
- Present the cheese ball alongside crusty baguette slices, artisan crackers, or crisp vegetable crudités for a sophisticated and inviting appetizer experience.
Notes
- Perfectly prep sun-dried tomatoes by dividing them into chopping and garnishing portions for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
- Blend soft cream cheese with robust shredded cheese, aromatic herbs, and savory ingredients to create a rich, complex flavor profile.
- Chill the cheese mixture for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up, making it easier to shape and roll into a beautiful ball.
- Toast panko breadcrumbs in butter until golden brown, creating a crispy, crunchy exterior that adds delightful texture to the cheese ball.
- Gently roll the chilled cheese ball in toasted breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and even coverage for a stunning presentation.
- Serve with an array of dipping options like crusty baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for a versatile appetizer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg