Mack'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball accented with dried beef and scallions, perfect for parties or snacking, offering bold flavors and a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix softened cream cheese, Accent, scallions, and half of the shredded dried beef until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the remaining dried beef until fully coated.
- Chill the cheese ball before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you can’t find dried beef, consider using finely chopped prosciutto or salami as a substitute. Adjust the amount of Accent based on your taste preference, and feel free to add other herbs or spices like garlic powder for added flavor. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices for dipping. It’s perfect as an appetizer for game day or alongside a spread of American recipes. Consider pairing it with a fruit platter or a light salad for a balanced snacking experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing it. When ready to serve again, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mack'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 25 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it, roll it in the dried beef, and then refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when served.
What can I use instead of scallions?
If you don’t have scallions, finely chopped chives or red onions can work well as substitutes. Both will add a nice onion flavor without overwhelming the dish, allowing the cream cheese and dried beef to shine.
How can I make this cheese ball spicier?
For a spicier version, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. You can also experiment with spicy flavored dried beef or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
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).