Description
This classic Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with softened cream cheese, sharp white cheddar, finely diced dried beef, and seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and spices, this cheese ball is both flavorful and easy to prepare. It’s garnished with green onions and additional cheese and beef on the outside for an attractive presentation, making it a crowd-pleaser served with crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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
- Prepare cream cheese base: Add the softened cream cheese to a large bowl.
- Season mixture: Add Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add main mix-ins: Stir in ¾ of the finely diced dried beef, ¾ of the diced green onions, and ¾ of the shredded sharp white cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Prepare plastic wrap: Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap flat on your countertop.
- Form the cheese ball: Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Gather the plastic wrap under and around the mixture, then use your hands to mold it into a smooth, round ball, fully covered by the plastic.
- Chill the cheese ball: Place the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare outer coating: Before serving, combine the remaining diced dried beef and shredded cheddar cheese on a medium plate, mixing them together.
- Unwrap and coat: Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and place it on the plate with the beef and cheese mixture. Press the mixture onto the entire surface of the cheese ball to coat it evenly.
- Garnish: Place the coated cheese ball in the center of your serving dish and sprinkle the remaining diced green onions on top for a fresh finish.
- Serve: Arrange crackers around the cheese ball on the serving dish and serve immediately.
Notes
- Allowing the cream cheese to soften to room temperature ensures easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Chilling the cheese ball for at least two hours before coating helps it hold its shape better.
- You can prepare the cheese ball a day ahead; just keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.
- This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with buttery crackers, rye crisps, or sliced baguette.
