Beefy Cream Cheese Balls
Cream cheese balls with dried beef and bold seasonings offer a savory, rich appetizer perfect for gatherings or casual snacking, appealing to meat and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shred the dried beef in a blender, saving 1/2 cup of the shredded beef.
- In a large spoon, blend the softened cream cheese, chopped onion, remaining shredded beef, Worcestershire sauce, Accent, and a few drops of Tabasco sauce until well mixed.
- Shape the mixture into 2 large or 4 small balls.
- Roll each ball in the reserved shredded beef to coat.
- Serve at room temperature with crackers.
- These beefy cream cheese balls freeze well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the cream cheese longer and consider using a hand mixer instead of a spoon. If you're short on dried beef, try substituting with finely chopped ham or turkey. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less Tabasco sauce to suit your taste. This recipe can also be modified with different herbs or spices for variation.
Serving Suggestions
These beefy cream cheese balls are perfect as a game day snack or party appetizer. Serve them with an assortment of crackers, veggies, or toasted baguette slices. They pair beautifully with a refreshing dip or can be enjoyed alongside a cheese platter. Consider serving them with a side of Two Bean Soup for a heartier meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefy Cream Cheese Balls contains roughly 67 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 these beefy cream cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Just roll them in the reserved beef right before serving to keep the coating fresh. This makes for a convenient party appetizer that can be made ahead of time.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar and sugar as a substitute. This will still provide a tangy flavor that complements the cream cheese and beef well, making it a suitable alternative.
How can I add more flavor to the cream cheese balls?
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the cream cheese mixture. These additions will enhance the taste and can be tailored to your preference, making each batch unique.
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).