Cream Cheese Ball(Appetizer)
A creamy, savory cheese ball packed with green onions, olives, mushrooms, and dried beef, perfect as a flavorful appetizer for gatherings and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Chop green onions and mushrooms very fine and drain well.
- Cut dried beef into fine pieces.
- Mix the softened cream cheese with chopped green onions, drained black olives, chopped mushrooms, Accent, and dried beef.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in finely chopped pecans if desired.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some cream cheese with Greek yogurt. For additional texture, incorporate finely shredded carrots or bell peppers. Make sure to drain the mushrooms and olives thoroughly to prevent a watery dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cream cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer spread. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or can be included as part of a charcuterie board. For a more filling meal, enjoy it alongside the Hamburger Cheese Quiche or Round Steak Sizzler.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. To serve again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before bringing it back to room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Ball(Appetizer) contains roughly 165 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 cream cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, this appetizer can be prepared a day in advance. Just shape the mixture into a ball, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when served.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you prefer not to use dried beef, consider substituting it with chopped cooked bacon or even diced ham for a different flavor profile. You can also skip it entirely for a vegetarian version, adding more olives or nuts instead.
How do I serve this dish at a party?
For a party, place the cream cheese ball on a decorative plate and surround it with an array of crackers, sliced vegetables, or even fruits like apple slices. Consider adding a small bowl of salsa or chutney for guests to dip into, adding an extra layer of flavor.
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).