Classic Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or sour cream, optional
- 1 jar (about 2¼ ounces) dried beef, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Round crackers, for serving
- Fresh parsley, optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes so it becomes easy to mix.
- Make the cheese mixture: Place the softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Add the shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and mayonnaise or sour cream if using.
- Add some dried beef and onions: Reserve about one-third of the chopped dried beef and some of the green onions for coating. Stir the remaining dried beef and green onions into the cream-cheese mixture until evenly combined.
- Shape the cheese ball: Use clean hands or a spatula to shape the mixture into a firm ball. If it feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 20–30 minutes before shaping.
- Coat the outside: Spread the reserved chopped dried beef and green onions on a plate. Roll the cheese ball gently over the mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks to the surface.
- Chill: Cover the cheese ball and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps it firm up and allows the flavors to blend.
- Serve: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator about 10–15 minutes before serving. Arrange it on a platter with round crackers and garnish with a little fresh parsley if desired.
Make-Ahead Tip
The cheese ball can be prepared a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. Add the crackers just before serving so they stay crisp.
Serving idea: Place the cheese ball in the center of a platter and surround it with plenty of round crackers for an easy party appetizer.
