Cheesy Beef Ball
A savory cheese and beef ball appetizer packed with green olives, green onions, and peppers, perfect for snacking and entertaining at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop all ingredients very fine.
- Mix the chopped ingredients together thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Chill the cheese beef ball in the refrigerator.
- Serve with assorted snack crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of cream cheese with sour cream. If you want a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the stuffed olives with pimento-stuffed ones for a different flavor profile. This recipe can also be adapted to include finely chopped herbs like dill or parsley for freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese beef ball with a variety of snack crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even slices of baguette. It pairs beautifully with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a Spicy Beef Salad for a delightful appetizer spread or at a gathering with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese beef ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. While it’s best served cold, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Beef Ball contains roughly 211 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (345% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the cheese beef ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese beef ball a day in advance. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Just remember to let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
What can I use instead of green olives?
If green olives aren’t to your taste, you can use black olives or even capers for a different flavor. Each will impart its unique taste to the cheese beef ball, so choose based on your preference. You might also experiment with different types of stuffed olives, like garlic or feta-stuffed ones.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian cheese ball, simply omit the dried beef and replace it with finely chopped mushrooms or walnuts for texture. You can also add more vegetables, like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots, to enhance flavor and nutrition. Use the same method for mixing and chilling.
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).