Very Good Cheese Ball
A rich, savory cheese ball combining cream cheese, dried onion, dried beef, and garlic powder, perfect for parties and appetizer platters, offering bold flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the dried onion with water and let it soak until all water is absorbed.
- Mix the soaked onion, cream cheese, dried beef, and garlic powder together.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in chopped nuts.
- Best if made a day ahead of use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you want a twist, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or finely chopped herbs such as chives. You can also substitute the dried beef with finely chopped ham or turkey for a different flavor profile. This cheese ball is perfect for parties and pairs well with crackers or veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with a variety of dippers like assorted crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even slices of baguette. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a light beer. For a complete appetizer spread, consider including other snacks like olives and cheese cubes. This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings and complements well with other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you have rolled the cheese ball in nuts, wait to add the nuts until just before serving to maintain their crunch. If you want to serve it warm, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Good Cheese Ball contains roughly 853 calories, with 20g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value) and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 948mg per serving (41% 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, it's actually best if made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of dried beef?
If you're looking for a substitute for dried beef, finely chopped ham or turkey can work well. You could also use bacon bits or even a vegetarian option like sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor while keeping it meat-free.
How can I add more flavor to this cheese ball?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as smoked paprika or onion powder along with the garlic powder. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also add a fresh note. Experiment with your favorite seasonings to customize it to your taste.
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).