Large Cheese Ball
A rich, savory cheese ball coated with shredded corned beef, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering creamy textures with a hint of spice and meatiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a food processor except 1 package of corned beef; mix well and form into a ball.
- Process the remaining package of corned beef into shreds.
- Put waxed paper on a surface and roll your cheese ball over it to coat the outside.
- Chill until needed.
- Serve at room temperature with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you want to lighten the dish, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also add herbs like chives or dill for extra flavor. If you're short on time, pre-shredded corned beef can save you some prep work.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for a delightful snack. It pairs beautifully with a fresh vegetable platter for a colorful presentation. For a complete party spread, consider adding a few savory dishes like Tangy Buffet Meatballs or a Corned Beef Dish to complement this appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to regain its spreadable consistency. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Large Cheese Ball contains roughly 439 calories, with 8g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1132mg per serving (49% 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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to two days in advance. Simply follow the recipe, shape it into a ball, and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of corned beef?
If you're looking for a different flavor, turkey or chicken deli meat can work as a substitute for corned beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes mixed with nuts for a flavorful alternative.
How do I know when the cheese ball is ready to be served?
The cheese ball is best served at room temperature, so let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. If it's too cold, the texture may be too firm to spread. You can also check if it has a smooth, creamy consistency that spreads easily onto crackers.
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).