Creamy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball – Don’t LOSE This Recipe
Creamy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is one of those classic appetizers that never goes out of style. It’s rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying, with a smooth creamy texture balanced by the salty bite of chipped beef. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, holidays, game nights, or anytime you want an easy make-ahead appetizer that looks impressive but takes very little effort.
What makes this cheese ball special is how simple ingredients come together to create deep flavor. The cream cheese provides a silky base, the chipped beef adds saltiness and umami, and the seasonings bring everything into perfect balance. Served with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables, this cheese ball disappears fast, so you may want to make two.
Ingredients
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 jar (2.5–3 oz) chipped beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (only if needed for texture)
For coating (optional but delicious):
- Extra chopped chipped beef
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
- Crushed nuts (pecans or walnuts work well)
Instructions
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. It’s very important that the cream cheese is fully softened; this ensures a smooth, lump-free texture and makes mixing much easier.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl and mix gently until it begins to combine with the cream cheese. At this stage, the mixture will still be thick, which is exactly what you want.
Next, add the finely chopped chipped beef. Make sure it’s chopped small so it distributes evenly throughout the cheese ball. This prevents overly salty bites and gives consistent flavor in every scoop.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too stiff or dry, add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the texture becomes creamy but still firm enough to hold its shape.
If using green onions, fold them in at the end for a fresh, mild onion flavor that balances the richness.
Once everything is fully mixed, use a spatula or your hands to form the mixture into a ball. If it feels too soft, cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes, then shape again.
Roll the cheese ball in your chosen coating. Extra chopped chipped beef adds bold flavor, while parsley or green onions add color and freshness. Nuts add a pleasant crunch and contrast beautifully with the creamy center.
Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to fully develop and makes the cheese ball easier to slice or spread.
Serving Suggestions
Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Serve with buttery crackers, wheat crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzels, or fresh vegetables like celery and bell peppers.
This cheese ball pairs perfectly with simple snacks because it’s rich and flavorful on its own. A little goes a long way, but guests almost always come back for more.
Tips for Best Results
- Always taste before chilling and adjust seasoning if needed.
- For a milder version, rinse the chipped beef briefly under water and pat dry before chopping.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
- This cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is easy, reliable, and crowd-pleasing. It requires no cooking, minimal prep, and uses ingredients that are easy to find. The result is a smooth, savory appetizer that feels nostalgic, comforting, and indulgent all at once.