Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Dried Beef Everything Cheese Ball - featured image

Crowd-Pleasing Dried Beef Everything Cheese Ball


  • Author: Sarah Wasserman
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x

Description

This creamy, savory cheese ball is packed with dried beef and green onions, then rolled in everything bagel seasoning for a crunchy, flavorful finish. It’s the ultimate easy appetizer that disappears before the main course even hits the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese (two 8-ounce blocks), softened to room temperature
  • 4 ounces dried beef, finely chopped
  • 3–4 green onions, thinly sliced (both white and green parts)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 3–4 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning, for coating

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of fridge 30-45 minutes before starting until soft enough to press finger into. Alternatively, microwave in 10-second bursts without melting.
  2. Chop the dried beef: Finely chop into small, even pieces. Set aside about 1 tablespoon for coating if desired.
  3. Slice the green onions: Thinly slice 3-4 green onions (white and green parts) to get about 1/4 cup. Set aside a tablespoon for garnish if desired.
  4. Mix the base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes, scraping down sides halfway through.
  5. Add the mix-ins: Fold in chopped dried beef and sliced green onions using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  6. Shape the cheese ball: Scoop mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Use wrap to shape into a ball, twisting top to secure.
  7. Chill the cheese ball: Refrigerate wrapped cheese ball for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until firm.
  8. Prepare the coating: Spread everything bagel seasoning on parchment paper or a plate. Optionally mix in reserved chopped dried beef.
  9. Roll the cheese ball: Unwrap chilled cheese ball and gently roll in everything seasoning, pressing lightly to coat entire surface.
  10. Serve: Place on serving platter. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

Room temperature cream cheese is essential for smooth texture. Chill time is non-negotiable for proper shaping. For extra flavor, toast everything seasoning in a dry skillet for 2 minutes before using. Can be made up to 2 days ahead; roll in seasoning just before serving. Freeze uncoated cheese ball for up to 2 months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 t
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 520
  • Fat: 16
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 4
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 7

Keywords: cheese ball, dried beef, everything bagel seasoning, party appetizer, easy appetizer, cream cheese, potluck, game day