
Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
Few appetizers capture the spirit of classic comfort food quite like a Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball. Rich, creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this retro-inspired dish combines the salty goodness of chipped beef with smooth cream cheese, shredded cheese, and seasonings that create the perfect spread for crackers, bread, or crisp vegetables. Whether served during the holidays, at game-day gatherings, family reunions, or casual parties, this cheese ball is always one of the first dishes to disappear.
What makes this recipe especially popular is its simplicity. It requires minimal cooking, comes together quickly, and can be prepared ahead of time. The creamy texture paired with the smoky, salty beef creates a delicious contrast that guests love. Best of all, it is highly customizable, allowing you to add herbs, nuts, or spices to suit your taste.
What Is Creamed Chipped Beef?
Chipped beef refers to thinly sliced dried beef that has been salted and cured. Traditionally, it was often served in a creamy white sauce over toast, a dish sometimes known as “SOS” in military kitchens. In this cheese ball version, the beef is chopped into small pieces and blended into a creamy cheese mixture, creating a flavorful appetizer with a nostalgic touch.
The salty beef balances perfectly with the richness of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, making every bite bold and satisfying.
Ingredients You Will Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 jar dried chipped beef, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Coating Ingredients
- Chopped pecans
- Fresh parsley
- Extra chipped beef
- Crushed crackers
- Shredded cheese
For Serving
- Butter crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Pretzels
- Celery sticks
- Cucumber slices
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese
Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before starting. Softened cream cheese blends much more easily and creates a smoother texture.
Place the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Use a spoon or hand mixer to beat it until smooth and fluffy.
This step is important because it prevents lumps and helps the ingredients combine evenly.
Step 2: Chop the Chipped Beef
Take the dried chipped beef and pat it gently with paper towels if it seems overly moist or salty.
Using a sharp knife, finely chop the beef into very small pieces. Smaller pieces distribute better throughout the cheese mixture and create a balanced flavor in every bite.
Reserve a small amount if you would like to roll the finished cheese ball in extra beef later.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Ingredients
To the cream cheese, add:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chipped beef
- Green onions
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
Mix everything thoroughly until completely combined.
At this stage, the mixture should be thick, creamy, and packed with savory flavor.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Ball
Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter.
Scoop the cheese mixture into the center of the plastic wrap and use the wrap to help shape it into a ball. Press gently to compact the mixture so it holds together firmly.
Twist the plastic wrap tightly around the cheese ball.









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