Pam'S Cheese Ball
Pam's Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining rich cream cheese, dried beef, mild Cheddar, and onion, it offers a flavorful bite that pairs wonderfully with crackers. Its simple preparation and delightful taste make it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream cheese, chopped onion, dried beef, and shredded Cheddar cheese together in a large bowl until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball or shape as desired.
- Let set in the refrigerator overnight.
- Serve chilled with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. If you want a spicier kick, try substituting pepper jack cheese for the mild Cheddar. You can also use chopped green onions instead of a small onion for a milder taste. This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings alongside other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced vegetables, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit platter or a side of Dynamite Sauce for dipping. This dish is perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings, making it a versatile addition to any spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball, as it may change consistency upon thawing. Simply take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easy spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pam'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 499 calories, with 19g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 581mg per serving (25% 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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just follow the recipe and let it set in the refrigerator overnight. When you're ready to serve, simply take it out and let it come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you're looking for an alternative to dried beef, finely chopped ham or turkey can work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes, which will give the cheese ball a unique twist while still maintaining a robust flavor.
How can I make this cheese ball spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You might also consider using pepper jack cheese instead of mild Cheddar. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level for a deliciously zesty cheese ball.
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).