Beef Cracker Spread
A savory beef and cream cheese spread with onions, perfect for serving with crackers at gatherings or as a flavorful appetizer that appeals to a variety of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese and milk together until smooth.
- Add diced dried beef and chopped onion to the mixture.
- Stir in the sour cream until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a pie plate.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want to add a little zing, consider incorporating some Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce. You can substitute the dried beef with chopped ham or turkey for a different flavor profile. This spread is perfect for gatherings and can be prepped ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef Cracker Spread warm, accompanied by a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. For a delightful touch, pair it with a chilled beverage or serve alongside a light salad. It pairs beautifully with John'S Festive Casserole for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Cracker Spread contains roughly 275 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% 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 make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving to achieve that warm, bubbly texture. This is especially convenient for parties or gatherings.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar tanginess and creaminess. Alternatively, a mixture of cream cheese and a little lemon juice can also work as a substitute.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the dried beef with finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Adding a few spices like smoked paprika can enhance the flavor and give it a hearty feel.
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).