Meat Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball packed with chopped dried beef or ham, crunchy pecans, and zesty horseradish, perfect as an appetizer or party snack. Its creamy interior and nutty exterior make it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise together until smooth.
- Add the chopped onion, horseradish, and hot sauce to the mixture and blend well.
- Take 3/4 cup of chopped pecans and all of the chopped dried beef or ham, then add to the mixture and combine thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a ball or desired shape.
- Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans and flaked parsley over the surface of the meat cheese ball.
- Refrigerate for several hours to let flavors meld and the ball set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute sour cream for mayonnaise for a tangy twist. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of horseradish or hot sauce. Try adding chopped green onions or fresh herbs for added freshness. This meat cheese ball makes a great appetizer for gatherings, alongside Texas Chili Beef or Barbecued Franks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a charcuterie board or as part of a festive spread. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Shepherd's Pie(A Meal In One Dish) or Chili Burger(Quick And Easy) for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply serve it cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Refrain from freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Cheese Ball contains roughly 346 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 meat cheese ball in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just shape the ball and refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld. This allows for a more intense flavor and makes it an ideal make-ahead appetizer for parties.
What can I substitute for dried beef?
If you don't have dried beef, you can use finely chopped cooked ham, turkey, or even salami. Just ensure the meat is chopped very finely so it blends well with the cream cheese mixture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add extra heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or horseradish used. You might also consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using spicy pickles in place of regular ones for a kick.
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).