Directions
Get all your ingredients ready before starting. Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. This will make mixing it much easier. Cut the dried beef into small pieces if it is not already chopped, and cut the green onions into slices.
Combining Ingredients: Put the softened cream cheese in a big mixing bowl. If you are using a mixer, choose a low speed setting to prevent splashing. Put the diced beef and finely chopped green onions in the bowl. Mix these ingredients with a mixer or a wooden spoon until they are well combined with the cream cheese. You want the mix to be even and fully mixed.
Add the garlic powder and onion powder to the mixture. Mix these ingredients well. Now, try a little bit of your mix to see if it needs more seasoning. If you think it needs more taste, just add a little bit of salt. Keep in mind that the chipped beef is already salty. Therefore, add salt little by little and taste as you go to prevent adding too much salt.
Make the Cheese Ball: Place a piece of plastic wrap on a smooth surface. Put the cheese mixture on the plastic wrap. Carefully bring the sides of the plastic wrap together and begin forming the mixture into a ball. You can shape it with your hands into a smooth, round form. The plastic wrap makes it easier to shape the ball and stops the mixture from sticking to your hands. After forming it, wrap the cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap.
Cool the cheese ball by putting it in the fridge. Let it cool for at least 20 minutes, or until it hardens. This step is very important because it helps the flavors mix well and the cheese ball keep its form when served.
To serve: Once chilled, gently take out the cheese ball from the plastic wrap. Put it on a serving plate. If you want, you can add some finely chopped green onions on top for a touch of color and more taste.
Serve the cheese ball with Ritz crackers or any other kind of cracker you like. The crunchy, buttery Ritz crackers go really well with the smooth cheese ball.
Different options and replacements
This Chipped Beef Cheese Ball can be easily customized. Here are some different options to suit various tastes and diets:
Extras: To enhance the taste, you can add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or a bit of dried herbs (such as dill or parsley) to the mix.
Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a little hot sauce if you like spicy food.
Diet Changes: If you want a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or a mix of Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. To make a vegetarian version, leave out the chipped beef and instead include finely chopped bell peppers or olives.
Types of Cheese: Although cream cheese is common, you can try different kinds of cheese. You can make the classic recipe more interesting by adding some shredded cheddar or tangy blue cheese.
Final thoughts
The Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is not just a starter; it’s a dish that can evoke memories and unite people. Its smooth and tasty taste, along with the enjoyable crispiness of crackers, makes it a favorite among many people that is difficult to say no to. The recipe is easy and clear, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
If you want to amaze your guests or just have a tasty snack at home, this cheese ball is a great choice. Its simplicity to make and ability to be adjusted make it a recipe that can be changed to fit any event or taste. Get your ingredients, follow these instructions, and prepare to savor a dish that is not only delicious but also brings back happy memories and shared happiness. Have fun!
