Smoking a Cheese Ball on the Grill: A Delicious Twist
Are you looking for a unique and flavorful appetizer to impress your guests at your next cookout? Look no further than a smoked cheese ball! This simple yet delicious dish is easy to prepare and adds a smoky, savory flavor to the classic cheese ball. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a mouthwatering smoked cheese ball on your grill.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped pecans or almonds
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood work well)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- While the cheese ball is chilling, prepare your grill for smoking. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then drain them.
- Once the grill is ready, sprinkle the soaked wood chips over the charcoal or place them in a smoker box for a gas grill.
- Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans or almonds, pressing gently to adhere the nuts to the surface.
- Place the cheese ball on the grill grates away from direct heat. Close the lid and let the cheese ball smoke for about 30-45 minutes, or until it picks up a light smoky flavor.
- Remove the smoked cheese ball from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Once you’ve mastered the art of smoking a cheese ball on the grill, you can get creative with your ingredients. Try adding different herbs, spices, or even crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture for a unique twist. Serve the smoked cheese ball with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress.
So, the next time you fire up the grill, consider adding a smoked cheese ball to the menu. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that will elevate your outdoor gatherings and leave your guests coming back for more!
Happy grilling!
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