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Cheese Roll
The Cheese Roll is a nostalgic appetizer from mid-20th-century American home entertaining, often served at parties or holiday gatherings. Combining sharp cheese, garlic, and a kick of Tabasco, it creates a creamy, tangy spread that’s rolled with pecans and dusted with paprika or chili powder for color and flavor. This versatile roll is served sliced with crackers or fresh vegetables and embodies the easy charm of vintage recipes — simple ingredients blended into a rich, satisfying treat. Its savory depth and make-ahead convenience make it a perennial favorite for hosts who love old-fashioned yet crowd-pleasing flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb cheese (preferably sharp cheddar, grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • few drops Tabasco sauce
  • 1 tsp mayonnaise
  • 1 cup pecans (chopped)
  • paprika (for coating)
  • chili powder (for coating)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine grated cheese, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, mayonnaise, and pecans. Mix thoroughly until well blended.

Step 2: Form the Roll

  • Place the cheese mixture on wax paper and shape it into a roll or log.

Step 3: Season the Exterior

  • Sprinkle paprika and chili powder evenly over the wax paper, then roll the cheese log in the seasoning to coat the outside.

Step 4: Chill

  • Wrap the roll tightly in wax paper and refrigerate for at least one hour or until firm.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

  • Once chilled, slice into rounds and serve with crackers or bread.

Tips

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor.
  • Substitute cream cheese for part of the cheese to make spreading easier.
  • Roll in chopped parsley or crushed crackers instead of paprika and chili powder.
  • Add finely minced green onions for extra flavor and color.
  • Chill overnight for the best slicing texture.
  • Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or baguette slices.
  • Toast pecans lightly before mixing for deeper nut flavor.
  • Adjust Tabasco and chili powder to your preferred heat level.
  • If mixture is crumbly, add a little more mayonnaise to bind.
  • Shape into two smaller rolls instead of one large roll for parties.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 9gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.6mg
Keyword appetizer, cheese roll, easy appetizer, garlic cheese, make-ahead, nuts, party food, retro recipes, snack spread, vintage recipe