Herbed Marinated Cheese Balls

Elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Herbed Marinated Cheese Balls! A creamy blend of tangy goat cheese and smooth cream cheese is delicately rolled into bite-sized spheres and coated in a vibrant mixture of fresh parsley, chives, and thyme, with a zesty kick of garlic and red pepper flakes. Submerged in golden extra-virgin olive oil, these cheese balls marinate to perfection, soaking up bold, herbaceous flavors. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this elegant make-ahead recipe is ideal for entertaining, whether you're hosting a dinner party or curating a charcuterie board. Serve them alongside crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for a gourmet touch that will impress any guest.

Nutriscore Rating: 45/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Goat cheese (soft, plain)
• 4 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
• 3 tablespoons Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh chives (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 0.5 teaspoons Crushed red pepper flakes
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
• 0 for serving Crusty bread or crackers (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese and cream cheese. Use a spatula or electric hand mixer to blend until smooth and well-combined.

Step 2

Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, portion the cheese mixture into approximately 1-inch balls. Roll them gently between your palms to create smooth, even balls.

Step 3

Place the cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 4

Meanwhile, prepare the herb mixture by combining the chopped parsley, chives, thyme, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Step 5

Once the cheese balls are chilled, roll each ball individually in the herb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

Step 6

Transfer the herbed cheese balls to a clean jar or container. Pour the olive oil over the cheese balls, ensuring they are fully submerged.

Step 7

Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours (or up to 5 days) to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

Step 8

Before serving, bring the cheese balls to room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	642.6 grams (642.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3259

Total Fat 328.00g	421%
Saturated Fat 89.50g	447%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 255mg	85%
Sodium 2850mg	124%
Total Carbohydrate 34.30g	12%
Dietary Fiber 1.70g	6%
Total Sugars 5.20g
Protein 52.40g	105%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 476mg	37%
Iron 4mg	21%
Potassium 365mg	8%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 89.5%

Protein: 6.4%

Carbs: 4.2%