The Best Dried Beef Cheeseball: Savory and Salty

Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was a sanctuary of savory aromas, but nothing quite matched the excitement of seeing her dried beef cheeseball take its place on the holiday table. This dried beef cheeseball is the ultimate retro appetizer that has stood the test of time for a very good reason: it is absolutely delicious. Whether you are hosting a quick weeknight gathering or preparing a festive dish for a crowd, this recipe is your secret weapon. It strikes that perfect balance between creamy, salty, and sharp, making it a healthy comfort food option when served with fresh vegetables. Let’s dive into how to perfect this legendary snack.

The Essential Ingredients for Success

For a truly exceptional dried beef cheeseball, quality is paramount. Seek out a reputable brand of chipped beef, often found in the refrigerated meat aisle or in small jars. The green onions should be bright and firm, providing that essential bite of freshness that cuts through the rich fat of the dairy.

The Essentials

• 16.0 oz Cream Cheese (full fat)
• 4.5 oz Dried Beef (finely chopped)
• 0.5 cups Green Onions (thinly sliced)
• 1.0 tsp Garlic Powder

The Flavor Boosters

• 1.0 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 0.25 tsp Onion Powder
• Crackers or Veggies for serving

Dried Beef Cheeseball Recipe Card

Dried Beef Cheeseball Recipe

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

This timeless dried beef cheeseball combines creamy textures with salty, savory beef for a party favorite that never fails.

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Ingredients

• 16.0 oz Cream Cheese (full fat)

• 4.5 oz Dried Beef (finely chopped)

• 0.5 cups Green Onions (thinly sliced)

• 1.0 tsp Garlic Powder

• 1.0 tsp Worcestershire Sauce

• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)

• 0.25 tsp Onion Powder

• Crackers or Veggies for serving

Directions

• Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for at least 2.0 hours. Finely chop the dried beef into tiny pieces, reserving half for the final coating. Mix the cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
• Stir in the green onions and half of the chopped beef until evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into a large ball using plastic wrap to help guide your hands.
• Roll the ball in the reserved dried beef until the entire surface is covered. Refrigerate the cheeseball for at least 4.0 hours to allow the flavors to marry.
• Serve chilled with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or sliced vegetables.

Notes

• If the beef is too salty for your taste, soak it in warm water for 5.0 minutes then dry it.
• You can add a kick of heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Make individual “mini cheeseballs” for an elegant serving style!

Nutrition Facts

• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 6g

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Beating the Party Rush

To ensure you aren’t rushing while your guests are ringing the doorbell, a little foresight goes a long way. The beauty of the dried beef cheeseball is that it actually benefits from a long nap in the refrigerator. This chilling time allows the salty beef and the zingy green onions to infuse into the cream cheese. I recommend prepping this at least 24 hours in advance to maximize the flavor profile.

• Softening the Base: Bring your cream cheese to room temperature for at least 2.0 hours. This prevents lumps and ensures a silkier texture.
• Beef Rinsing: Dried beef can be intensely salty. Quickly rinse the meat under cold water and pat it very dry before chopping to control the saltiness.
• Herb Chopping: Finely mince your scallions and store them in an airtight container to keep their crunch.

Plating and Perfect Pairings

How you serve your dried beef cheeseball can elevate it from a simple snack to a gourmet experience. While buttery crackers are the traditional choice, I personally love the snap of fresh bell pepper strips or cucumber rounds. For a more sophisticated touch, try pairing it with warm pita wedges or sourdough crisps. The saltiness of the beef also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a hoppy IPA. Here are some actionable tips for the best results:

• Always serve the cheeseball slightly chilled so it holds its shape while being scooped.
• Avoid using “low-fat” cream cheese as it lacks the structural integrity needed for a firm ball.
• Enhance the flavor by adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami kick.
• Press the remaining beef onto the exterior right before serving to keep it looking vibrant.

Why This Dried Beef Cheeseball Appetizer Still Reigns Supreme

In a world of complicated molecular gastronomy, the dried beef cheeseball remains a titan of the snack table. Its simplicity is its greatest strength. You can assemble this dried beef cheeseball in under fifteen minutes, yet it provides a complex flavor profile that satisfies everyone. It is a nostalgic bridge between generations, sparking conversations about past family gatherings and shared meals. When you serve this, you aren’t just serving cheese; you are serving a piece of culinary history.

Appetizer Troubleshooting

Final Bites

I truly hope this dried beef cheeseball becomes a star attraction at your next event. Its simple ingredients and bold flavors make it a reliable favorite for any host. This dried beef cheeseball is a testament to the fact that classic recipes never truly go out of style. If you enjoyed this savory treat, you might also like my spicy buffalo chicken dip or my spinach artichoke. Don’t forget to share your photos with me, I love seeing how your dried beef cheeseball turns out!