Chipped Beef Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

This Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is a classic party favorite that’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor. Perfect for gatherings, it pairs wonderfully with crackers for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces cream cheese (2 (8-ounce) packages), softened to room temperature, preferably full fat
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 5 ounces dried beef (2 (2.5-ounce) packages), finely diced
• 4 green onions, tops finely diced
• 1 ½ cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese.
2. Step 2: Add Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Step 3: Stir in ¾ of the diced dried beef, ¾ of the green onions, and ¾ of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined. Save the remaining beef, onions, and cheese for coating the outside.
4. Step 4: Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean counter surface.
5. Step 5: Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap.
6. Step 6: Gather the plastic wrap around the mixture and mold it with your hands into a smooth ball, fully covering it with the wrap.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least two hours to set.
8. Step 8: Before serving, combine the reserved dried beef and shredded cheddar cheese on a medium plate.
9. Step 9: Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on the plate with the beef and cheese mixture.
10. Step 10: Press the beef and cheese mixture into the surface of the cheese ball evenly.
11. Step 11: Sprinkle the remaining green onions on top of the cheese ball.
12. Step 12: Arrange crackers around the cheese ball and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
• Try substituting sharp cheddar with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Use finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley to add a fresh note.
• For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

Storage

Store the cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To serve again, bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes and serve with fresh crackers.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, the cheese ball benefits from resting in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight, which allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

What can I serve with a chipped beef cheese ball?

It pairs well with crackers, sliced baguette, fresh vegetable sticks like celery or carrots, or even pita chips for a variety of dipping options.

Chipped Beef Cheese Ball Recipe

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4.8 from 113 reviews

This Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is a classic, creamy appetizer combining smooth cream cheese with savory dried beef, sharp cheddar, and a flavorful blend of spices. Perfect for gatherings, this easy-to-make cheese ball is packed with bold flavors and topped with green onions for a fresh finish. Serve chilled with crackers to impress your guests with a simple yet delicious snack.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Ball Mixture

• 16 ounces cream cheese (2 (8-ounce) packages), softened to room temperature, full fat
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 5 ounces dried beef (2 (2.5-ounce) packages), finely diced
• 4 green onions, tops finely diced
• 1 ½ cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Prepare Cream Cheese Base: Add the softened cream cheese to a large bowl ensuring it is smooth and at room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Mix Seasonings: Add Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add Dried Beef, Onions, and Cheese: Fold in ¾ of the finely diced dried beef, ¾ of the diced green onions, and ¾ of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Shape the Cheese Ball: Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, then gather the edges of the wrap around the mixture. Use your hands to shape it into a smooth, firm ball completely covered by the plastic wrap.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld and the shape to firm up.
6. Prepare Topping Mix: On a medium plate, combine the remaining dried beef and shredded cheddar cheese to serve as the decorative topping.
7. Unwrap and Coat: Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and place it on the plate with the topping mixture. Press the beef and cheese mixture firmly and evenly over the entire surface of the cheese ball.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining diced green onions on top. Position the cheese ball in the center of a serving dish and arrange crackers around it for serving.

Notes

• For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Use sharp white cheddar cheese for a bold flavor that complements the dried beef.
• Can be prepared a day ahead; keep covered in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors.
• Serve with a variety of crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping.
• For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar, though this will change the texture slightly.

Keywords: cheese ball, appetizer, chipped beef, cream cheese appetizer, party snack, holiday appetizer