Every party needs a show-stopping appetizer, and this cream cheese ball with dried beef is it. Easy to make and impossible to resist, it’s the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that will have your guests coming back for more.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of cream cheese and dried beef creates a perfect balance of creamy and savory flavors.
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no cooking, just mixing and chilling.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for various add-ins and coatings to suit any taste.
- It’s a make-ahead dish, freeing up your time for other party preparations.
- The cream cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2.5 oz dried beef, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped (for coating)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Plastic wrap
- Plate or serving dish
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped dried beef, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Use an electric mixer on medium speed or a wooden spoon to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth. This should take about 2 minutes with a mixer or 5 minutes by hand.
Step 2: Shape the Mixture into a Ball
Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Using the wrap, shape the mixture into a ball by gathering the edges of the wrap and twisting them together to form a tight package. This method helps in creating a perfect ball shape without getting your hands messy.
Step 3: Chill the Cheese Ball
Place the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This step is crucial for the cheese ball to hold its shape when served. For best results, you can chill it overnight.
Step 4: Coat the Cheese Ball
Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the finely chopped pecans until fully coated. Press the pecans gently into the cheese ball to ensure they stick. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the creamy center.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Place the coated cheese ball on a serving dish surrounded by crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture. If you’re not a fan of pecans, try coating the cheese ball in chopped parsley, additional dried beef, or even crispy bacon bits for a different texture and taste. To make the cheese ball even more festive, shape it into a pumpkin for Halloween or a snowball for Christmas parties by adjusting the coating and adding decorative elements.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the dried beef for smoked salmon and dill for a seafood twist.
- Add blue cheese crumbles and walnuts for a bold, tangy flavor profile.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean version.
- Use cooked, crumbled sausage and cheddar cheese for a hearty, breakfast-inspired cheese ball.
- For a sweet option, mix in cinnamon, honey, and coat with crushed graham crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cheese ball can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until you’re ready to coat and serve it. This makes it a fantastic option for stress-free party planning.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If dried beef isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or even omit the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. The recipe is very adaptable to your preferences.
How long can the cheese ball sit out at room temperature?
For food safety, it’s best not to leave the cheese ball out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. If your party is longer, consider keeping it chilled until ready to serve or placing it on a chilled serving tray.
Summary
This cream cheese ball with dried beef is a must-try for any gathering. Easy to make, delicious, and versatile, it’s sure to be a hit. With the option to customize flavors and coatings, you can tailor it to any occasion or preference.