Chopped Beef Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball combining creamy textures with dried beef, olives, and relish, coated in nuts for a flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cream cheese, dried beef, relish, and chopped olives in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in nuts to coat.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a bit more flavor, consider adding some Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute the dried beef with chopped ham or salami for a different twist. For a nut-free option, skip the nuts and serve with crackers instead. This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings or as a game day snack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chopped beef cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced vegetables, or pretzel crisps for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Reuben Appetizer Squares, creating a well-rounded spread for parties. Consider adding a selection of cheeses and cured meats to your serving platter for a more robust charcuterie experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. To refresh its texture, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chopped Beef Cheese Ball contains roughly 743 calories, with 8g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2918mg per serving (127% 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 the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you don't have dried beef, you can substitute it with finely chopped cooked ham, salami, or even crumbled bacon for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the substitute is dry enough to maintain the cheese ball's shape.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the cheese ball, omit the dried beef and replace it with finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives. You can also add chopped herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor and freshness.
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).