Recipes | Appetizers | Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball

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Imagine a creamy, savory cheese ball bursting with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil flavors. This simple yet sophisticated appetizer is perfect for impressing guests, whether hosting a big party or a cozy get-together. This Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball tastes amazing and looks absolutely stunning on your appetizer table.

Want to add more delicious show-stopping treats to your spread? These Cheese Ball Recipes are my go-to for epic inspiration!

photo collage of a cheese ball with sun-dried tomatoes and basil with text which reads sun-dried tomato and basil cheese ball  easy & delicious

You can also check out this giant list of appetizers and recipes for your next party!

But back to the important stuff. This Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball is a culinary delight that combines rich flavors and creamy textures.

Tangy sun-dried tomatoes meld perfectly with aromatic basil, while cream cheese provides a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth base. Mozzarella adds a subtle stretchiness and panko-style bread crumbs give a satisfying crunch.

Whether new to cheese balls or a seasoned pro, this recipe will elevate your entertaining game.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball

If you love bold flavors and easy-to-make recipes, you’re in for a treat. This cheese ball is versatile, making it perfect for various occasions.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with crackers, breadsticks, and fresh veggies.

Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your event and less time in the kitchen.

photo collage of a sun-dried tomato and basil cheese ball served with crackers with text which reads sun-dried tomato and basil cheeseball

Savory Cheese Ball Variations

While the Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball is a masterpiece, there are countless ways to customize this savory treat. Here are some variations to inspire your creativity.

Mediterranean Cheese Ball

Love Mediterranean flavors? Add finely chopped olives, roasted red peppers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to your cheese ball mixture. This variation offers a zesty, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with pita chips or sliced cucumbers.

Herb-Infused Cheese Ball

Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley into the mixture for a more herbaceous flavor profile. This variation adds vibrant green specks and enhances the overall aroma and taste, making it a delightful addition to any herb lover’s table.

Spicy Cheese Ball

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add finely diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. This spicy variation is perfect for appetizers with a little extra zing. Serve it with tortilla chips for a fun and fiery snack.

Specialty Ingredients:

The following ingredients are affiliate links on Amazon because they may be a bit hard to find in your normal store.  I wanted you to be able to see exactly which things we are using.

Reminder, not all ingredients in the Tomato Cheese Ball Recipe are linked above, just the ones that may be a bit difficult to find or that you might be unsure of what to look for.

Shop My Kitchen:

The following items can be found in my kitchen here at Miller Manor. Simply click the image that interests you – yes, they do contain affiliate links.

Must Have Resources:

When making a Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Ball at home, you really need to have the following Amazon affiliate tools on hand.

Stainless Steel Cheese Slicer with Accurate Size Scale, Wire Cheese Slicer for Cheese Butter, Equipped with 4 Replaceable Cheese Slicer WiresPicnic at Ascot Bamboo Cheese Board/Charcuterie Platter - Includes 3 Ceramic Bowls with Bamboo Spoons - 13Godinger Wood Serving Tray, Charcuterie Platter Cheese Board Rainbow Sandstone - RoundSweese 123.001 Porcelain Mini Bowls - 4 Ounce for Dipping Sauces, Small Side Dishes - Set of 6, WhiteWhite Porcelain Olive Plate - Swerve Design, Beautiful Presentation - 9 Inches - 6 oz - 1ct Box - Restaurantware, Black, SmallBOSKA Copenhagen Mini Knife Set Cheese Knives, Stainless

 

Make it a Meal:

I’ve been a big fan of weekly meal planning for several years, and now is your time to join me! If you’re on the fence about whether or not to take the plunge, I promise you it’s easy and fun!

Below is a quick sample of how to structure your meal planning for the day or week.

Main Dish: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Vegetable Side: Asparagus on the Grill

Starch Side: Leftover Baked Potatoes

Refreshing Drink: Toxic Waste Mocktail Recipe

Don’t forget Dessert: Birthday Cake Puppy Chow

closeup of a cheeseball made with sun-dried tomatoes and basil with text which reads sun-dried tomato and basil cheese ball easy and delicious

Best Appetizer Recipes:

Once you try this Gourmet Cheeseball recipe, you’ll want to try a few other easy and fun dips at your next party. I have found the most amazing appetizer recipes you should try.

This Sweet Pineapple Cheeseball Recipe is full of flavor with no heat, but it still packs a tasty punch.

Make your appetizer super quick with this 5-minute Bean Dip! It’s perfect for serving with crackers or vegetable dippers.

This Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a great find, and the crockpot does all the heavy-lifting work for you.

2 Pack Apronner Bib Aprons for Women Soft Cotton Linen Kitchen Cooking Chef Apron with Pockets Adjustable Machine Washable 003Meat Chopper, Hamburger Chopper, Premium Heat Resistant Mix Chopper, Ground Beef Chopper Tool & Meat Fork, Potato Masher,Safe for Non-Stick CookwareFarberware Dishwasher Safe Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 15 Piece, PewterFast Defrosting Tray - Meat Thawing Board for Natural Thawing Frozen Meat and Food - Miracle Thaw for Fridge - Rapid Thaw Defrosting Plate to Keep Original Food Flavor - Large with Drip Tray

 

When I’m in a pinch, I reach for these 25 Cold Appetizers for epic starter inspiration.

If you love cheese, these Cheese Stuffed Meatballs will be your pinch-hitter.

Or take a look at these 27 Yummy Super Bowl Appetizer Recipes for yet more ideas.

closeup of a cheese ball made with sun-dried tomatoes and basil with text which reads sun-dried tomato and basil cheese ball

Tips to Make the Perfect Cheese Ball

Creating the perfect cheese ball is an art, but with a few expert tips, you’ll be a pro in no time. Here are some essential tips to ensure your Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball is flawless.

Use Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can make or break your cheese ball. Opt for high-quality cream cheese and mozzarella for the best texture and flavor. Fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (drained and dried) will provide the most vibrant taste.

Mix Thoroughly

Ensure all your ingredients are well incorporated for a consistently flavored cheese ball. Using a hand mixer to soften the cream cheese will make it easier to blend everything evenly. Don’t forget to fold in the sun-dried tomatoes gently to avoid breaking them down too much.

Shape and Chill

Shaping your cheese ball can be tricky, but plastic wrap makes it much easier. Place the mixture into a plastic wrap-lined bowl and shape it gently.

Once formed, unwrap it carefully and roll it in bread crumbs for a beautiful, crunchy exterior. If you have time, chill the cheese ball before serving to help it firm up and enhance the flavors.

Shop My Printables

These printables are great for meal planning and organizing! Simply click the image to check out my shop products!

More Cheeseball Recipes:

sun-dried tomato and basil cheese ball served with crackers

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball

Yield: 12 Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

This Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball is a savory way to make a delicious appetizer at home!

Ingredients

  • 2 8oz cream cheese blocks
  • 2 tbsp Dried Basil
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1/2 cups Sun-Dried Tomatoes, drained and dried
  • 1 cup Panko-style Bread Crumbs

Instructions

  1. With a hand mixer, soften the cream cheese.
  2. Add basil and mozzarella cheese, then mix well.
  3. Fold-in the sun-dried tomatoes
  4. Using two pieces of plastic wrap layered in a clean bowl, place the mixture into the plastic wrap, then gently shape the mixture into a ball shape.
  5. Gently unwrap the ball and place it on a plate or serving platter, then cover the exposed exterior of the cheese ball in the bread crumbs.
  6. Serve immediately or chill, if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 210Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 43mgSodium: 263mgCarbohydrates: 12gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 6g

This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix on 8/27/2024

Did you make this recipe?

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Ready to give it a try? Grab your ingredients, and let’s make a cheese ball!

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