Dried Beef Ball
Dried Beef Ball is a savory, creamy appetizer combining dried beef, cream cheese, and olives, perfect for parties or snacking with a rich, tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Mix the softened cream cheese with dried beef.
- Add olive juice to the mixture to ease mixing.
- Dice the olives and fold them into the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and garnish with olives.
Tips & Substitutions
To easily soften cream cheese, leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. For a flavor twist, you can also add some diced green onions or herbs like dill to the mixture. This recipe can be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, similar to other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dried beef ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing veggie platter or can be incorporated into a charcuterie board for a more extensive spread. This dish is great for parties and gatherings, similar to how you might serve Maryland Style Vegetable Crab Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. If you prefer, you can also reheat it gently in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat and melt the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Beef Ball contains roughly 152 calories, with 9g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% 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 dried beef ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dried beef ball a day in advance. Just shape it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you're looking for a substitute for dried beef, you can use prosciutto or turkey bacon for a different flavor profile. Both options will still give you that salty, savory kick. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, try using roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to add a unique twist.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick to your dried beef ball, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy olives for an extra layer of heat that will excite your taste buds.
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).