Spicy Beef Cheese Ball
A savory, spicy cheese ball combining creamy cream cheese, dried beef, and onion flakes, perfect for parties, appetizers, or snack trays with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature.
- Shred the dried spicy beef into small pieces.
- Set aside a small amount of beef to roll the cheese ball in.
- Mix the cream cheese, shredded beef, and onion flakes until smooth.
- Shape the mixture into balls or rolls.
- Roll each ball in the remaining beef.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Set out a little before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If spicy beef is unavailable, try using finely chopped smoked ham or even a mix of bacon bits for a different flavor. Adjust the onion flakes to your taste, or substitute with finely chopped green onions for a milder onion flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with an array of crackers, fresh vegetables, or pretzel crisps for a delightful appetizer. This spicy beef cheese ball pairs beautifully with Two-Alarm Chili, making it a great addition to game day or parties. Garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheese balls wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Beef Cheese Ball contains roughly 1158 calories, with 26g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value) and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% 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 roll it in the beef, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using a low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I serve this cheese ball?
Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and surround it with an assortment of dippers such as crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies. You can also serve it with a side of Papa Jacobs' Barbecue Sauce for a tangy twist.
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).