This dried beef cheese ball is a fun and tasty appetizer! It’s made with creamy cheese, hearty dried beef, and a mix of seasonings that come together perfectly.
Honestly, it’s the hit of any party! I love serving it with crunchy crackers. Just a tip: make sure to keep it cold until serving, or it might get too soft. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base of this cheese ball, cream cheese brings creaminess and smooth texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a low-fat version or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick. If you want a milder flavor, go for mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses. For a dairy-free option, there are excellent vegan cream cheeses available now!
Dried Beef: This ingredient is key for flavor. If you don’t have dried beef, you can substitute with cooked bacon bits, prosciutto, or even chopped cooked ham for a different taste.
Chives: They give a fresh, oniony flavor. If chives are hard to find, green onions work well as a substitute, adding a similar taste with a bit more crunch.
How Do I Ensure My Cheese Ball Stays Firm?
Making a cheese ball that holds its shape can be tricky. Here are some tips to keep it firm and easy to slice:
- Chill the Mixture: After mixing all the ingredients, let the cheese mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before shaping it. This will help it firm up.
- Use Plastic Wrap: If your hands are getting too sticky, use plastic wrap to help form the ball. It keeps things clean and prevents sticking.
- Refrigerate Again: After shaping, let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps it hold its shape and allows flavors to meld.
Enjoy your cheese ball with crackers or veggies for a quick and satisfying snack!
Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup dried beef, finely chopped or crumbled
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crackers
- Optional: slices of dried beef and green grapes for plating
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time. After that, you’ll need to chill the cheese ball for at least 1 hour in the fridge so it firms up nicely. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delicious appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This creates the delicious base of your cheese ball!
2. Add Flavor:
Next, add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped fresh chives to your cheese mixture. Stir everything together well to make sure those flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Incorporate the Dried Beef:
Now it’s time to fold in about half of the finely chopped or crumbled dried beef into the cheese mixture. This adds a nice texture and flavor throughout!
4. Shape it Up!
Using your hands or some plastic wrap, shape the mixture into a round ball. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; the plastic wrap can help you form it into a smooth sphere easily.
5. Coat the Cheese Ball:
Spread the remaining dried beef on a plate. Roll your cheese ball in the dried beef, gently pressing it so that the beef sticks and forms an even coating all around the cheese.
6. Garnish:
Sprinkle a little extra chopped chives on top of the cheese ball for a nice decorative touch!
7. Chill Out:
Cover the cheese ball with plastic wrap or place it on a serving plate. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps it firm up and lets the flavors mix together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, present the cheese ball with some crunchy crackers, extra dried beef slices, and maybe some green grapes for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious and savory dried beef cheese ball at your next gathering!
This tasty cheese ball is sure to be a crowd-pleaser—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be substituted without any issue. It will still provide a creamy texture while making the cheese ball a bit lighter.
How Long Can I Keep Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to maintain its taste and texture.
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after shaping and chilling it. It will be ready to serve when you are!
What Can I Serve with the Cheese Ball Besides Crackers?
In addition to crackers, you can serve the cheese ball with fresh veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper slices, or pretzels. For a sweet contrast, fruit like apple slices or grapes works beautifully too!