Roast Beef Cheese Ball
A savory cheese ball combining creamy cheese, flavorful corned or roast beef, sharp Cheddar, and fresh vegetables, perfect for parties or appetizers with optional pecan coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except pecans.
- Chill for 1 hour or until firm.
- Shape into a ball.
- Roll in chopped pecans (optional).
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the corned beef or roast beef with finely chopped cooked ham or turkey. For added spice, a dash of hot sauce can be mixed in. This cheese ball is perfect for parties and pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Roast Beef Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. It pairs nicely with a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside the Cheesy Meat Pie for a hearty spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roast Beef Cheese Ball contains roughly 609 calories, with 19g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 580mg 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?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If using pecans, roll the cheese ball in them just before serving to keep them crunchy.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I make this cheese ball spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with flavored cheeses, such as pepper jack, for an extra kick. Just make sure to balance the heat with the other ingredients.
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).