Introduction

This classic dried beef cheese ball is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Combining rich cream cheese with savory dried beef and spices, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with crackers, veggies, or bread.

A round cheese ball sits in the middle of a white plate, covered evenly with chopped pink-red meat and bits of green herbs mixed in. The cheese ball has a creamy white layer underneath the meat pieces, and on top, there is a small pile of fresh green chopped herbs. Surrounding the cheese ball is a single layer of golden brown round crackers with a slightly crispy texture, all placed neatly across the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder
1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
1 (4.5-ounce) jar dried beef, finely chopped
1⁄4 cup green onions, finely chopped (about 2–3 whole green onions)
1⁄2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for added flavor and texture)
1⁄4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for an extra smoky flavor)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
Crackers, veggies, or bread for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. If mixing by hand, use a spatula or large plastic spoon.
Step 2: Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
Step 3: Add the finely chopped dried beef and green onions to the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. (If using beef to coat the ball, reserve some.)
Step 4: Optional: Gently stir in the shredded cheddar and smoked paprika for added texture and smoky flavor.
Step 5: Use a spatula to form the mixture into a ball or shape it by hand. If the mixture is too soft, place it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up slightly before shaping.
Step 6: If desired, roll the cheese ball in chopped fresh parsley or a mix of parsley and reserved dried beef for a decorative finish. This adds extra flavor and visual appeal.
Step 7: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
Step 8: Remove the cheese ball from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, sliced veggies, or toasted bread. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version, but full-fat offers the best flavor and texture.
Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the mixture for extra crunch.
For a spicy kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
The cheese ball can be shaped into smaller balls as bite-sized appetizers.

Storage

Store the cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat is not necessary; just let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften.

How to Serve

A ball-shaped cheese spread with a white creamy texture mixed with bits of red meat and green herbs sits in the center of a white plate. The spread is topped with small green onion pieces. Around the cheese ball, there is a single layer of round, golden-brown crackers neatly arranged in a circle. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a folded gray cloth on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Refrigerate it wrapped tightly to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up nicely.

What can I serve with a dried beef cheese ball?

It pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, sliced fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers, and toasted bread or baguette slices.