Name: Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup dried beef (finely chopped); 1 –2 green onions (finely sliced); 1 –2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Optional garnish: chopped parsley (extra shredded cheese)

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The dried beef cheese ball is a beloved savory classic that brings a perfect balance of creamy richness and a tangy bite to any gathering. Blending smooth cream cheese with sharp cheddar and finely chopped dried beef, this cheese ball offers a delightful texture and flavor contrast that pairs beautifully with an array of crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies.

Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday tray, a casual game night, or an elegant potluck, this timeless snack not only looks inviting but is incredibly simple to make. The subtle seasonings and savory Worcestershire sauce round out the flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple, minimal ingredients combine for rich, savory flavor.
Perfectly creamy yet firm texture that’s easy to shape and serve.
Versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of dippers like crackers or veggies.
Prepares quickly and benefits from chilling to enhance flavor fusion.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese (225 g / 8 oz): Softened to smooth, it provides a creamy and rich base, essential for binding all ingredients.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a bold, tangy flavor and a pleasant texture contrast to the cream cheese base.
Dried Beef (½ cup, finely chopped): Finely chopped for even distribution, it offers a salty, savory punch that defines this classic snack.
Green Onions (1–2, finely sliced): Adds a mild oniony freshness, contributing crispness and subtle bite.
Worcestershire Sauce (1–2 tsp): Imparts a tangy, umami depth that enhances the savory flavors of the cheese and beef.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Provides a gentle warmth and aromatic essence without overpowering the other tastes.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp): A pinch to subtly spice and balance the dish’s flavor profile.
Optional Garnish: Chopped Parsley: Adds vibrant color and fresh herbal notes when sprinkled on top before serving.
Optional Garnish: Extra Shredded Cheese: A finishing touch for a more pronounced cheesy appearance and flavor boost.

Instructions

Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar. Stir them together until completely smooth and well blended to ensure a creamy texture throughout the cheese ball.
Add Flavorings: Fold in the finely chopped dried beef, thinly sliced green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the savory flavors in every bite.
Shape the Ball: Using clean hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a cohesive ball. This form makes it perfect for serving and easy to handle while retaining an attractive presentation.
Chill for Flavor Development: Wrap the cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap or cover it in a bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1–2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up nicely.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the chilled cheese ball from the fridge, unwrap it, and place it on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese if desired, enhancing both appearance and flavor. Serve with a selection of crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables.

You Must Know

For a firmer cheese ball that holds its shape well, extend chilling time beyond 2 hours before serving.
Add chopped nuts such as pecans or diced pimentos for extra texture and bursts of flavor.
Fresh herbs like dill or chives complement the dried beef beautifully if you want an herbaceous note.
Perfect make-ahead dish for holidays, game days, and potluck events to save prep time.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3–4 days for best freshness and flavor. For longer storage, the cheese ball can be frozen wrapped well and thawed overnight in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the dried beef cheese ball alongside an assortment of crispy crackers, crunchy celery sticks, or colorful bell pepper slices for contrast. It also pairs well with toasted baguette slices or sturdy breadsticks, making it a perfect starter or appetizer at any social gathering.

Professional Tips

Softening cream cheese to room temperature is key to easy mixing and smooth texture.
Finely chopping dried beef helps spread flavor evenly without overpowering the mix.
Adjust Worcestershire sauce to taste, as it can vary in saltiness and intensity by brand.
Chilling overnight improves both flavor blending and texture firmness for best results.

FAQs

Can I prepare the cheese ball in advance?: Yes, making it a day ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it taste even better.
What can I substitute for dried beef?: You can use finely chopped cooked bacon or smoked ham, though the flavor will differ slightly from classic dried beef.
How do I make the cheese ball firmer?: Chill it for longer, up to overnight, and ensure cream cheese is properly softened to blend well.
Are there any low-fat options?: You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar, but the texture and flavor may be less rich and creamy.
Can I add other mix-ins?: Absolutely, consider nuts, chopped olives, or diced pimentos to add both texture and new flavor dimensions.
How long does the cheese ball last?: Stored properly in the fridge, it lasts around 3 to 4 days before freshness declines.
What should I serve this with?: Crackers, fresh vegetables like bell peppers and celery, or crunchy breadsticks complement this cheese ball perfectly.