Beef And Olive Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball filled with dried beef and seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, topped with sliced olives, perfect for parties and appetizer platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, chopped dried beef, seasoned salt, and Worcestershire sauce with an electric mixer until well combined.
- Place the mixture in the refrigerator and chill until firm enough to form into a ball or loaf.
- Shape the chilled mixture into a ball or loaf shape.
- Cover the cheese ball with sliced green olives.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor. Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the taste. To keep your cheese ball from becoming too salty, be cautious with the seasoned salt, especially if the dried beef is already salty. This dish is a great appetizer for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef and olive cheese ball with a variety of crackers for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. For a themed gathering, complement it with other savory snacks, or browse more American recipes for a well-rounded spread. It also makes a great addition to a holiday charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its shape, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid reheating, as it is best served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Olive Cheese Ball contains roughly 27 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2015mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a combination of softened goat cheese or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese is spreadable to maintain the right texture. Mixing in some shredded cheese can also add a nice depth to the cheese ball.
How can I make this vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the cheese ball, simply omit the dried beef and replace it with finely chopped nuts or seeds for texture. You can also add diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste to ensure a delicious outcome.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
Besides crackers, consider serving the cheese ball with sliced baguette, pretzel chips, or even pita chips for a variety of textures. Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers also make great dippers. Pair it with a glass of wine or a refreshing beverage for a complete appetizer experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).