Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
There’s just something deliciously decadent about a ball of cheese surrounded by buttery crackers. It can make any moment feel like a fun celebration! With so much to handle in our day-to-day lives, it’s the small moments when we make time to enjoy each other that turn yummy food into an opportunity for gratitude and good times. We want to bring that kind of party to you and your loved ones with the cheesy, meaty flavors of this Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball. We know firsthand that this is a crowd-pleaser – it was gobbled up the second we put it out on the table!
The Worcestershire sauce elevates your taste buds, while the bright bite of spring onions is finely diced to complement rather than overpower this delicious combination. We love how the vibrant green of the onion and the reddish hue of the beef look so festive against the creamy white of the cheese. Chipped Beef was new to us, despite its long history! An ingredient with roots in the 1930s, it was a staple during lean times and in the army. The beef is cut very thin, compressed, dried, salted, and cured to last, often found in a can or jar.
Beef jerky, sausage, or cured salami make great substitutes for chipped beef. After all, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to a cheese ball! When shopping for this short list of ingredients, remember that not every brand will label it ‘chipped beef.’ Terms like ‘dried’ or ‘cured’ beef work just as well. Ultimately, it’s all about flavor with this festive dish and sharing it with people who matter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a breeze to make and delivers a savory, satisfying snack that your guests will love. Its festive look and versatile flavor make it perfect for any gathering, while the ease of preparation means you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (8 oz.) package chipped dried beef, finely chopped, if necessary
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 stalks green onion, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish (optional)
- Ritz crackers, for serving
- Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Using a mixer or wooden spoon, mix in chipped beef and green onions.
- Once incorporated, mix in garlic and onion powders. Taste and add salt if needed.
- Transfer the mixture to a sheet of plastic wrap, then seal tightly and shape into a ball.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or until firm.
- Unwrap and serve with crackers, garnish with more green onion if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before starting to make mixing easier. Also, chill the cheese ball adequately to ensure it holds its shape when serving.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of dried or cured meats if chipped beef isn’t available. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can also give the cheese ball a subtle kick.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of this cheese ball offers a rich source of protein and fats, making it a hearty snack when paired with crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce? Soy sauce or tamari can work as substitutes, adding their own unique flavor.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball as much as we do. It’s a simple yet delightful dish that brings people together. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so please leave a comment and let us know your thoughts!
