Description
This Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is a creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings and parties. It combines softened cream cheese with Worcestershire sauce, spices, and finely diced dried beef, then is mixed with sharp white cheddar and green onions. The cheese ball is chilled and garnished with reserved ingredients, making a delicious and visually appealing starter that pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball Base
- 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
Mix-ins and Garnish
- 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
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Add the softened cream cheese to a large mixing bowl, ensuring it is at room temperature for easy blending.
- Add Flavorings: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle the black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use an electric mixer to blend everything until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Mix in Dried Beef, Onion, and Cheese: Add three-quarters of the diced dried beef, green onions, and shredded cheddar to the cream cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Plastic Wrap: Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap flat on your counter surface, ready for shaping the cheese ball.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Transfer the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the plastic wrap up and around the cheese mixture, then use your hands to mold it into a smooth, round ball.
- Chill: Place the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two hours to firm up and develop flavors.
- Prepare Garnish Mix: In a medium plate, combine the remaining diced dried beef and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing them evenly for garnishing.
- Unwrap and Decorate: Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and place it onto the plate with the beef and cheese garnish mixture. Gently press this garnish mixture all over the surface of the cheese ball to coat it evenly.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle the remaining finely diced green onions over the top of the cheese ball for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Serve: Place the finished cheese ball in the center of your serving dish, ready to be enjoyed with your choice of crackers or veggies.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing for the best texture.
- Use sharp white cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy flavor that balances the salty beef.
- Chill the cheese ball thoroughly to allow the flavors to meld and for easier slicing or spreading.
- This appetizer pairs well with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh raw vegetables.
- Can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated tightly wrapped.
- For a prettier presentation, press the garnish evenly and use fresh green onions just before serving.
