Hot Dried Beef Spread
A creamy, savory dried beef spread with onions and Worcestershire, perfect for serving hot with crackers at gatherings or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and Worcestershire sauce and beat until fluffy.
- Stir in the chopped dried beef, instant onions or chopped onion, and chopped pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you don’t have instant onions, fresh ones work well, but be sure to sauté them first to soften their bite. For a lighter version, swap half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This recipe is great for gatherings and pairs nicely with crackers or veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Dried Beef Spread with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It makes a great appetizer for parties, and pairs beautifully with Mom's Chili Con Carne for a heartier spread. Consider offering a selection of cheeses alongside to elevate your appetizer board.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid overheating. This spread is best enjoyed warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Dried Beef Spread contains roughly 812 calories, with 15g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% 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 this spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain freshness. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it until hot and bubbly. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you prefer a different protein, consider using finely chopped ham or even cooked, crumbled bacon as substitutes. These options will give a different flavor profile but will still maintain the creamy texture of the spread.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, you could replace the dried beef with finely chopped mushrooms or a mix of diced bell peppers and olives. This will give a unique flavor while keeping the spread rich and satisfying. Just ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
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).