This is an old-school classic turned party favorite — salty chipped beef, creamy cheese, a little crunch, and big flavor. Perfect for crackers, crostini, or celery sticks. Below is a detailed, step-by-step version.
Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
Ingredients
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2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
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1 (2.5 oz) jar dried chipped beef (Buddig or similar), finely chopped
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
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2 green onions, finely sliced
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1–2 tablespoons sour cream (if needed for smoothness)
Optional coating:
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½ cup chopped pecans
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Extra chopped chipped beef
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Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
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Remove chipped beef from jar.
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Rinse briefly under cool water (optional, reduces saltiness).
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Pat dry thoroughly.
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Finely chop into small pieces.
Tip: Chop very small so it blends evenly throughout the cheese ball.
Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese
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Let cream cheese sit at room temperature 30–45 minutes.
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It should be very soft for easy mixing.
Do not microwave unless absolutely necessary — it can affect texture.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl combine:
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Softened cream cheese
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Chopped chipped beef
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Shredded cheddar
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Green onions
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Worcestershire sauce
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Garlic powder
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Black pepper
Mix thoroughly with a spatula or hand mixer until evenly combined.
If mixture feels too stiff, add 1–2 tablespoons sour cream.
Step 4: Chill
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Cover bowl with plastic wrap.
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Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to firm up.
This makes shaping easier and improves flavor.
Step 5: Shape the Cheese Ball
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Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter.
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Spoon mixture into center.
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Use wrap to form into a tight ball.
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Twist ends to secure.
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Chill another 30–60 minutes if needed.
Step 6: Add Coating (Optional but Recommended)
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Spread chopped pecans, extra beef, or parsley on a plate.
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Unwrap cheese ball.
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Roll gently in coating until fully covered.
Press lightly so coating sticks.
Step 7: Serve
Place on a serving plate and let sit at room temperature 15–20 minutes before serving for best spreadable texture.
Serve with:
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Butter crackers
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Toasted baguette slices
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Pretzels
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Celery sticks
Flavor Boost Variations
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Add ½ teaspoon onion powder
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Stir in 1 tablespoon horseradish for kick
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Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne for heat
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Mix in 2 tablespoons finely diced pimentos for color
Make-Ahead & Storage
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Can be made 2 days ahead.
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Keep tightly wrapped in refrigerator.
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Lasts 4–5 days refrigerated.
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Not ideal for freezing (texture changes).