Gala Pecan Spread
Creamy, savory pecan spread with dried beef, green pepper, and onion flakes, topped with toasted pecans; perfect as an appetizer or spread for crackers and bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese and milk, mixing well.
- Stir in dried beef, green pepper, onion flakes, and seasoning; mix well.
- Fold in sour cream.
- Spoon the mixture into an 8-inch pie plate.
- Heat butter in a skillet and crisp the pecans.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the cheese mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you want to reduce richness, consider using low-fat cream cheese. For added flavor, try substituting fresh herbs like dill or chives instead of onion flakes. If you're not a fan of green pepper, you can use finely chopped celery for a different crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Gala Pecan Spread is perfect as an appetizer and pairs beautifully with crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a complete snack, serve alongside a fresh vegetable platter or fruit slices. It also complements well with a side of Super Vegetable Soup, making it a delightful addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave in short intervals to prevent separation. Alternatively, you can bake it again at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through, ensuring it remains creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gala Pecan Spread contains roughly 269 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 25g 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 spread in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spread a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for the sliced beef?
If you're looking for a substitution for the sliced beef, consider using diced turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, you could use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
Is it possible to make this spread dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using vegan cream cheese and sour cream. Make sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they're dairy-free, and adjust seasonings to taste.
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).