Name: How to Make a Curry Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 250 g cream cheese, softened; 60 g grated cheddar cheese (frozen works best); 3 tbsp gherkin relish (approx. ¾ small jar); 3-4 tbsp curry powder (for coating)

If you’re planning a party, a barbecue, or just a cheeky get-together with friends and family, this retro gem will be your new go-to appetiser. The Curry Ball is one of those classic Aussie recipes that looks quirky (okay, borderline odd), but somehow always ends up being the first thing devoured. It’s savoury, tangy, creamy and coated in a generous layer of curry powder that gives it an unmistakable flavour kick – truly something special.

The origin? Straight out of the 1970s entertaining playbook. Think fondue sets, devilled eggs, and cheese cubes on toothpicks. But don’t let its kitschy background fool you – this dish has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s made with just a few simple ingredients you likely have in the fridge: cream cheese, grated cheese, and sweet gherkin relish. Then it’s all rolled into a ball (yes, by hand!) and coated in curry powder for a punch of flavour and colour.

Serve it with Jatz, corn chips, or crackers of your choice and you’ve got an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, prepping for a footy night, or just want something different for your next cheese platter – this Curry Ball is an easy win. And the best part? You can make it ahead of time, let the flavours mingle in the fridge, and simply serve when needed.

So embrace the retro, lean into the mess, and roll yourself one seriously tasty dip.

How to Make a Curry Ball

Recipe by Stay at Home Mum

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A retro party dip turned showstopper – tangy, cheesy and coated in rich curry powder.

Course: SnacksCuisine: WesternDifficulty: Easy

Servings

–

servings

Prep time

minutes

Calories

185

kcal

Refrigerate

Total time

minutes

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

250 g cream cheese, softened
60 g grated cheddar cheese (frozen works best)
3 tbsp gherkin relish (approx. ¾ small jar)
3-4 tbsp curry powder (for coating)

Directions

Place softened cream cheese and gherkin relish in a mixing bowl.
Beat with electric mixers until smooth and well combined.
Add grated cheddar and mix through with a wooden spoon.
Scoop the mixture into your hands and shape into a ball.
Spread curry powder onto a plate. Roll the ball in the curry powder until fully coated.
Wrap in cling film and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

For best flavour, make the day before and chill overnight.
Not suitable for freezing.
Serve with Jatz crackers or corn chips.
Optional additions: corn kernels, diced red capsicum, or chopped ham.

Clare Whitfield Chief Editor

Clare Whitfield is the Editor of Stay at Home Mum and a recognised voice in practical home management for Australian families. Based in the northern suburbs of Sydney, she balances editorial leadership with life as a stay at home mum to two school age children. Her background in home economics and more than a decade of experience in recipe development, family budgeting, and household systems inform her work.

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