Alright, so Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball just sounds like one of those snacks you only hear about at other people’s parties, right? I used to feel that way too. Every time a potluck or family shindig rolled around, I was scrambling for a crowd-pleaser that didn’t take an entire afternoon to prep. You know, something that’s simple (my patience runs short on weekdays), yet still makes folks hover around the appetizer table. Well, this is it. My accidental discovery has turned into my most requested recipe—and my not-so-secret weapon for impressing friends, especially the picky ones.
How to Make the Dried Beef Cheese Ball
If you’ve never made a cheese ball with dried beef in it (and honestly, why would you have unless someone passed it along?), buckle up. It’s really as easy as smearing toast, but with a bit more flavor and a lot more “wow.” First things first: gather up your ingredients. You’ll need cream cheese, a pack of chipped beef (the kind you find near lunch meats), a few green onions, Worcestershire sauce, and some shredded cheddar. Oh, and a touch of garlic powder doesn’t hurt. Mix the cream cheese until it’s soft, then chop that beef up into bits (I use kitchen scissors—my best hack). Toss everything into a bowl and squish it together with clean hands. Rolls easier than you think. Once it’s all combined, shape it into a ball and roll in extra chopped beef or even fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Let it chill at least two hours so flavors can mingle—a little patience takes it from good to five-star restaurant level.
“I brought this to my neighbor’s BBQ last summer and everyone went absolutely nuts for it. I’ve never seen a cheese ball disappear so fast!” — Janet, longtime cheese ball enthusiast
How to Serve Cheese Balls
Sure, you could just plop the Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball on a plate with crackers and call it a day, but where’s the fun in that? Get creative. I like pairing mine with:
- Crunchy pita chips (they don’t crumble under pressure)
- Slices of crisp celery or bell pepper for that fresh zing
- Pretzel thins (kids devour these, no joke)
- A mix of seeded whole grain crackers for grown-up flavor
For a real Midwest vibe, I’ve even surrounded mine with mini dill pickles. It gets people talking. If you want it even creamier, let the cheese ball sit at room temp for 15 minutes before serving. 
Storing
You’ll (possibly) have leftovers—honestly, not often. But if you do, wrap the Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball snug in plastic or shove into a tight-lid container. It keeps chill in the fridge for about five days. If you want to make it ahead, just store that mixed cheese ball before rolling it in any toppings and finish up right before guests swing by. Freezing? Meh, I don’t recommend it—cream cheese texture gets wonky when thawed.
Top Tips
Here’s the down-low from way too many cheese balls in my lifetime: softer cream cheese mixes better (bring it out for 30 min), don’t skip the chill—it’s worth waiting for fuller flavor, and always taste before rolling, just in case you want to throw in extra onions or hot sauce for a kick. If you overdo the garlic, just add a bit more cheese. It is really forgiving. And those little kitchen scissors for chopping dried beef? Life-changer if you hate dealing with sticky knives. Trust me—your hands will thank you.
This Beef Cheese Ball Recipe is Perfect for Parties
Maybe this sounds bold, but no other party food draws people in like this Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball. It’s nearly impossible to mess up, and super adaptable. Last football game? Gone in fifteen minutes. Christmas Eve? My mom’s friends gossiped so long over it, the kids got all the presents. The mix of salty beef, creamy base, and just the right bite from the onions keeps everyone reaching back for “just one more.” You’ll catch folks quietly scraping up the last bits. If you’re tired of bringing chips or another bowl of sad dip—this is your move. Every party, every season. Seriously.
Common Questions
Does this really taste like classic creamed chipped beef?
Pretty much, but colder and way more fun, honestly. You get all that salty beef punch but in a snack-able, dippable form.
Can I use a different kind of meat?
You can, but dried beef is part of the magic. Some folks use thin ham or turkey but you’ll lose that signature flavor.
What can I do to make it spicier?
Oh, easy! Add a dash or three of hot sauce, or even some finely diced jalapeños before rolling into a ball.
How far in advance can I make this?
At least a day ahead is best. The flavors blend and it’s less last-minute chaos on party day.
Can I make this dairy free?
There are dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar alternatives these days. Give them a whirl, just taste as you go because flavor can be different.
Try This Cheesy Treat at Your Next Get-Together
That’s about the scoop, friends. If you’re after a fuss-free, delicious, and totally nostalgic party snack, this Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is the ticket. Don’t be fooled—it always gets more praise than those complicated appetizers. Plus, it’s as adaptable as you need. Check out other spins and serving ideas over at 12 Tomatoes and the customizable version at SoupAddict for inspiration. So next time you hit a party crossroads, remember: sometimes, the humble cheese ball is the showstopper.
Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese until soft.
- Chop the chipped beef into small pieces using kitchen scissors.
- Add the chopped beef, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, shredded cheddar, and garlic powder into the bowl.
- Use your hands to combine all the ingredients until well mixed.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in extra chopped beef or parsley, if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve with crunchy pita chips, sliced celery or bell peppers, pretzel thins, or assorted whole grain crackers.
- For a creamier texture, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
