First of all, Merry Christmas! I hope you have a wonderful day with friends and loved ones.I have fond memories of the New Year’s Eve desserts and appetizers that my mom and I used to make. There was always our relished seven layer chip dip, homemade Oreo cookies, sometimes fudge, occasionally a cheese ball (like this Sun-Dried Tomato & Bacon one that I’ll introduce you to today), and of course banana splits. We’d order pizza so we could focus our day on creating the after-dinner delights. My dad would rent a movie for us to watch while we contentedly snacked and waited for the clock to strike midnight, ringing in the new year. I of course enjoyed the company, as my extended family would get together that night, but always especially looked forward to enjoying the delicious food we had prepared, with those special people.
The holidays to me are all about spending time with those we love, but somehow the family always gathers in the kitchen, right? So a holiday wouldn’t be complete without tasty food, too. 🙂 At least that’s my take on it. Celebrations are always centered around delicious things to eat, and New Year’s Eve was no different for my family growing up.
This Sun-Dried Tomato Bacon Cheese Ball is a fantastic way to celebrate friends and family, and the coming of a new year!
{SUN-DRIED TOMATO CHEESE BALL}
Original recipe from Taste of Home
12 oz. cream cheese, softened
2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
1 T. finely chopped onion
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 lb. bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
Assorted Crackers
In a large bowl, beat the first eight ingredients until blended. Shape into one big ball or 1 1/4″ mini balls.
Place bacon into a shallow dish; roll cheese ball(s) in bacon. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve with crackers.
You can’t go wrong with bacon and cream cheese. Sun-dried tomatoes aren’t too shabby either. This cheese ball makes a flavorful, tasty, and gorgeous addition to any holiday party!
It’s so simple to throw together, yet gives a big “awe” factor at first sight for the hungry guests. They’ll let loose a, “Wow!” after sinking their teeth into the cheese-and-bacon-topped cracker. And then they’ll keep coming back for more!
- Brooke -
-Aimee