Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
This classic cheese ball combines creamy cheese, savory chipped beef, and a few simple seasonings. It can be prepared ahead of time and is always a welcome addition to a snack table or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup finely chopped dried chipped beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
If the chipped beef is very salty, rinse it briefly under cold water and pat it completely dry.
Finely chop the beef and set aside a small amount for coating the cheese ball later.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
Add the cheddar cheese, most of the chopped chipped beef, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Mix until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball
Place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap.
Gather the mixture together and shape it into a firm ball.
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm.
4. Add the Coating
Combine the reserved chipped beef with the chopped pecans or walnuts, if using.
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it in the topping mixture until well coated.
5. Serve
Place the cheese ball on a serving plate and let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving.
Serve with crackers, pretzels, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Tips for the Best Cheese Ball
- Let the cream cheese soften before mixing so the texture stays smooth.
- Chop the chipped beef very finely for easier spreading.
- Chill the cheese ball thoroughly before coating it.
- Taste before adding extra salt because chipped beef and cheese can already be quite salty.
- Making it the day before allows the flavors to blend even more.
Easy Variations
Add finely chopped celery, parsley, dill, or a pinch of smoked paprika.
For extra crunch, use toasted pecans or walnuts in the outside coating.
You can also replace some of the cheddar with shredded Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese.
Storage
Keep the cheese ball covered and refrigerated. For best quality, enjoy it within 3–4 days.
Final Takeaway
Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory appetizer that takes only a few minutes to mix together. Chill it ahead of time, coat it with beef and nuts, and serve it with plenty of crunchy crackers for an easy crowd-pleasing snack.
