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Roasted Garlic Asiago Cheese Ball

A creamy and delicious cheese ball featuring roasted garlic and Asiago cheese, perfect for parties and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese Look for freshly shredded or finely grated.
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream Both can give a lovely tang.
  • 1 head garlic (roasted) Roast for best flavor.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest Fresh zest elevates the entire dish.
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and chives Adds color and freshness.
Optional Coating
  • 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts, pecans, or crispy bacon bits For a crunchy, delicious coating.
  • 1/4 cup extra shredded Asiago for coating A cheesy and delicious option.
Serving Suggestions
  • 1 pkg crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks Perfect accompaniments to scoop up the cheese ball.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30 to 35 minutes until soft and golden.
  2. Mash the Garlic: Allow roasted garlic to cool slightly, squeeze soft cloves out, and mash into a paste.
  3. Mix the Cheese: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  4. Incorporate Ingredients: Add mayonnaise or sour cream, shredded Asiago, mashed roasted garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Fold together until well combined.
  5. Chill the Mixture: Shape the mixture into a ball or log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Prepare the Coating: While waiting, chop chosen nuts, bacon, or extra Asiago.
  7. Coat the Cheese Ball: Roll chilled cheese ball in coating to add a flavorful crunch.
  8. Serve: Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving with crackers, crostini, or veggies.

Notes

Avoid over-mixing; you want chunks of garlic and cheese for the texture. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.