Jeweled Cheese Ball
A festive and savory cheese ball featuring dried beef, green onions, and cream cheese, perfect for parties and appetizer spreads, with customizable coatings for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop all but the white ends of the green onions and the Armour dried beef and put in a bowl.
- Add the softened cream cheese and mix well.
- Shape into a ball and refrigerate until firm.
- Roll cheese ball in desired coating: chili powder, paprika, chopped nuts, seasoned pepper, chopped parsley, etc.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful cheese ball, consider adding garlic powder or finely chopped herbs like dill or chives. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Ensure the cream cheese is well-softened to make mixing easier, and use fresh chopped vegetables for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball alongside a variety of crackers, veggie sticks, or pretzel bites for a delightful appetizer spread. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing dip like tzatziki or hummus. For a complete snack board, consider including fruits, nuts, and even slices of cured meats, making it a fantastic addition to your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the cheese ball begins to dry out, you can cover it in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jeweled Cheese Ball contains roughly 266 calories, with 7g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Shape it and refrigerate until firm, then coat it just before serving to maintain the freshness of the coating. This makes it a convenient option for parties.
What can I use instead of Armour dried beef?
If you prefer not to use dried beef, chopped cooked bacon or finely diced salami can be great alternatives. These substitutions will add a different flavor profile while still providing that savory element to the cheese ball.
How long should I refrigerate the cheese ball?
Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up properly. If you have time, letting it chill overnight enhances the flavors as they meld together, resulting in a tastier appetizer.
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).