4.9 (16 reviews)
Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Impress your guests with this easy, flavorful Dried Beef Cheese Ball! Creamy cheese and savory dried beef combine for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for holidays, game days, or any gathering.
This dried beef cheese ball is the kind of easy party appetizer that disappears fast. Creamy, tangy cream cheese meets salty, savory dried beef and a bright bite of green onion, all held together with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. It's a no-cook appetizer that comes together in minutes, then chills until you're ready to serve. The result is a rich, savory spread that works with crackers, veggies, or just a spoon.
Why You’ll Love This 5-Ingredient Appetizer
- You need just 5 ingredients, most of which you might already have in your fridge.
- It's a no-cook appetizer, so there's no heating up the kitchen or watching a timer.
- It's naturally low carb and keto friendly, so it fits a variety of eating styles.
Key Ingredients for a Great Dried Beef Cheese Ball
- Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Let it soften to room temperature before mixing. You can substitute Neufchâtel for a slightly lighter version.
- Dried beef: Look for dried beef in the deli section or near the canned meats. It's salty and savory, so you don't need much. Chop it finely for even distribution.
- Green onions: Use both the white and green parts for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. You can substitute chives if you prefer.
Kitchen Tools for Making Dried Beef Cheese Ball
- A large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
- A rubber spatula for mixing and shaping.
- Plastic wrap for shaping and storing the ball.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the dried beef and green onions.
Tips for Making the Best Dried Beef Cheese Ball
- Let the cream cheese soften fully at room temperature so it blends smoothly.
- Chop the dried beef into small, even pieces so they stick to the outside of the ball.
- Use your hands to shape the ball, but wet them slightly if the mixture sticks.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Dried Beef Cheese Ball
- For a finer coating, pulse the dried beef in a food processor until it's almost powdery. This gives a more even, delicate crust.
- If you want a stronger Worcestershire flavor, add an extra teaspoon, but taste the mixture before shaping.
- To make the cheese ball easier to shape, line your hands with plastic wrap or use a spatula to form it into a round.
Dried Beef Cheese Ball Variations to Try
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar for a richer, more savory flavor.
- Swap the dried beef for finely chopped smoked ham or prosciutto.
- Mix in a tablespoon of prepared horseradish for a zesty kick.
- Roll the finished ball in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
What to Serve with Dried Beef Cheese Ball
- Serve with buttery crackers, celery sticks, or cucumber rounds.
- Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
- Pair with a charcuterie board or a basket of fresh vegetables for a bigger spread.
How to Store Leftover Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Store the cheese ball in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep for several days, so you can make it ahead for a party. When you're ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften.
Source recipe: Dried Beef Cheese Ball (SnapChef ID 92d3dd9c-f38e-4266-b110-40d9758baf9a). Nutrition is estimated per serving.
Recipe
Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Ingredients
Instructions
- Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature.
- Chop the dried beef into small pieces.
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, Worcestershire Sauce, green onion, and one-third of the dried beef. Add black pepper if desired.
- Shape into a ball, and coat with the dried beef pieces. Chill until needed.
- Set out about 30 minutes before serving time to soften.
Notes
- Serve with buttery crackers, celery sticks, or cucumber rounds. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Pair with a charcuterie board or a basket of fresh vegetables for a bigger spread.
- Store the cheese ball in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep for several days, so you can make it ahead for a party. When you're ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften.
Nutrition per serving, estimated
| Calories | 237 kcal | 12% DV |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 6 g | 12% DV |
| Fat | 22 g | 28% DV |
| Carbs | 2 g | 1% DV |
| Sugar | 2 g | — |
| Sodium | 213 mg | 0% DV |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values are estimates.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this dried beef cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day or two ahead. Keep it wrapped in the fridge and let it soften for 30 minutes before serving. The flavors actually meld together better after a night in the fridge.
How long does the cheese ball need to chill?
Chill until the ball is firm enough to hold its shape, which usually takes at least 2 hours. You can also leave it overnight if you're prepping ahead. The recipe says to chill until needed, so there's no strict time.
Can I use a different type of dried beef?
Yes, you can use any dried beef you like, but look for one that's not too salty. You can also substitute finely chopped smoked ham or prosciutto for a different flavor.
Is this cheese ball keto-friendly?
Yes, it's naturally low carb and keto friendly. The main ingredients are cream cheese and dried beef, both of which are low in carbs. Just be mindful of what you serve it with, like crackers, which add carbs.
