Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this dried beef cheeseball! It’s one of those savory snacks that just steals the show at any gathering. Imagine a creamy, dreamy blend of softened cream cheese and chopped dried beef, all rolled into a charming ball and coated with crunchy walnuts. It’s like a flavor party in your mouth! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this for parties, and it disappears faster than you can say “cheeseball.” Trust me, everyone loves it, and you’ll get those happy, satisfied smiles when you serve it. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it the perfect go-to appetizer for your next get-together. So, let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 cup dried beef (chopped into small pieces for even distribution)
- 1/2 cup green onions (chopped, adding a nice crunch and freshness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that rich, cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (to coat the outside and add a delightful crunch)
How to Prepare Dried Beef Cheeseball
Preparing this dried beef cheeseball is an absolute breeze! I love how simple it is, yet it brings so much flavor and joy to the table. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a mixing bowl and combine that softened cream cheese with the chopped dried beef. Make sure the cream cheese is nice and soft—it makes mixing so much easier!
- Next, toss in those vibrant green onions and the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined. You want to see that beautiful blend of flavors!
- Now, it’s time for the fun part! Form the mixture into a ball shape. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; it’s all about the taste, right?
- Once you’ve shaped your cheeseball, roll it in the chopped walnuts to coat the outside. This adds a lovely crunch that everyone will love!
- Finally, pop your cheeseball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it lets those flavors mingle and develop even more. Yum!
And there you have it! A deliciously easy dried beef cheeseball ready to impress your friends and family. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—whip it up in just 15 minutes!
- Flavorful and savory combination that’s simply irresistible.
- Perfect for parties and gatherings; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Can be made in advance, so you can relax and enjoy your time with guests.
- Low carb option, making it a great choice for various diets.
Tips for Success
To really make this dried beef cheeseball shine, here are some of my favorite pro tips:
- Make sure that cream cheese is fully softened! This step is crucial for easy mixing. I usually take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before I start. Trust me, it makes a world of difference in how smoothly everything comes together.
- Don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning! Taste as you go! If you like a little extra kick, feel free to add some garlic powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty twist. You can really make this cheeseball your own.
- Serve with a variety of crackers or fresh vegetables! I love pairing it with crunchy veggies like celery or bell peppers for a fresh contrast. It’s not just about the cheeseball, but the whole experience! Grab a platter and make it a colorful spread.
With these tips, your cheeseball will be an absolute hit that everyone will be raving about!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delightful dried beef cheeseball. Keep in mind that these values are approximations, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Fiber: 0g
It’s a savory snack that fits well into a low-carb diet without sacrificing taste. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite, knowing you’re indulging in something that’s not only delicious but also a bit lighter!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dried beef cheeseball ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day in advance. It gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully in the fridge. Just keep it covered and pull it out about 30 minutes before serving to let it soften a bit.
What can I serve with the dried beef cheeseball?
You can’t go wrong with a variety of crackers, but I also love serving it with fresh veggies like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips. They add a refreshing crunch that complements the cheeseball perfectly!
Can I substitute the dried beef?
Definitely! If you want to switch it up, you could use chopped ham or even a mix of different deli meats. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How long will the dried beef cheeseball last in the fridge?
It should stay good for about 4-5 days in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated and it’ll be ready for snacking whenever you want!
Is this cheeseball suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes! This dried beef cheeseball is low in carbohydrates and made with ingredients that fit well into many low-carb diets. So, you can enjoy it without any guilt!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover dried beef cheeseball is super simple! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 4-5 days, so you can enjoy those delicious leftovers without worry!
Now, as for reheating—this cheeseball is best served cold, so I don’t recommend trying to heat it up. Instead, just let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving to bring it back to that perfect creamy texture. Trust me, it’ll taste just as amazing as when you first made it! Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your fabulous dried beef cheeseball, the possibilities are endless! Here are some of my favorite ideas to create a delightful appetizer spread that will wow your guests:
- Crackers: A variety of crunchy crackers is a must! I love using water crackers for their lightness, or go for whole grain for a bit of heartiness. You can even include some flavored varieties for an extra zing!
- Fresh Veggies: Slice up some fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery sticks. They not only add a vibrant pop of color but also bring a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheeseball.
- Cheese Platter: Why not create a mini cheese board? Add some slices of sharp cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese to complement the flavors of the cheeseball. It’s a great way to elevate your spread!
- Fruit: Consider adding some fresh fruits like grapes, apple slices, or even dried fruits. The sweetness of the fruit balances the savory flavors beautifully and adds a lovely contrast.
- Spreads: Put out a few dips or spreads like hummus or a tangy mustard. They can serve as delicious accompaniments that guests can enjoy alongside the cheeseball.
With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress at your next gathering! Just mix and match, and let your creativity shine. Enjoy your tasty cheeseball and the smiles it brings!
Print
Dried Beef Cheeseball: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Make It
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A savory snack made with dried beef and cream cheese, perfect for parties.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried beef, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and chopped dried beef.
- Add green onions and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheeseball in chopped walnuts to coat.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Serve with crackers or vegetables.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing and chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: dried beef cheeseball, appetizer, party snack
