Dad'S Favorite Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball combining creamy richness with the bold flavors of dried beef, green onions, and seasonings. Perfect for parties, it offers a delicious appetizer that's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful snacks with crackers or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Mix in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Accent to taste.
- Chop the green onion tops and dried beef.
- Reserve about one-third of the chopped dried beef.
- Add the remaining beef and an equal portion of green onion tops to the cream cheese mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the reserved dried beef.
- Serve with crackers or vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften fully at room temperature. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute the Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a different flavor profile. Feel free to mix in some shredded cheese or nuts for added texture. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers or vegetables, making it a versatile appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for parties or game day gatherings. Serve it alongside an assortment of crackers, sliced vegetables, or even pretzels for dipping. It also pairs well with a selection of cured meats and cheeses for a charcuterie board. For a themed spread, consider serving it with other American recipes like Football Stew or Beef Cabbage Soup for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to a month. To serve again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Favorite Cheese Ball contains roughly 54 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Just remember to roll it in the reserved dried beef right before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you're looking for a substitute for dried beef, consider using chopped ham, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any substitute you choose complements the flavors of the cheese ball without overpowering them.
How can I adjust the flavor of the cheese ball?
You can easily adjust the flavor by adding more Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder to suit your taste. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the freshness of the cheese ball. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite!
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).