Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball

A Retro Party Classic That Deserves a Comeback

Some recipes charm you with sophistication… and others win your heart because they’re comforting, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible. This Creamed Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is the latter — a retro appetizer that has made a full modern comeback, thanks to its bold flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible salty bite.

If you’ve ever attended a holiday party in the ’70s or ’80s, you might remember this on the snack table. Today, it’s more popular than ever because it’s effortless, rich, and unbelievably delicious. Spread it on crackers, tuck it onto a charcuterie board, or serve it with crisp veggies — no matter how you offer it, guests always come back for more.

This is the kind of appetizer that feels familiar yet exciting… the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and nostalgic. And the best part? It takes 10 minutes to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, nostalgic flavor: The salty, smoky chipped beef combined with cream cheese is iconic.
Ridiculously easy: No cooking, no fuss — perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Perfect party texture: Smooth, creamy, yet firm enough to shape beautifully.
Customizable: Make it mild, spicy, herbal, or extra cheesy.
Crowd-friendly: Always the first thing to disappear from a snack table.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Ball

2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 jar (5–6 oz) dried chipped beef, finely chopped
3 green onions, thinly sliced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: splash of hot sauce or pinch of paprika

For the Coating

Reserved chopped chipped beef
Optional: chopped parsley or chives

🍽 Equipment

Medium mixing bowl
Hand mixer (optional but helpful)
Plastic wrap
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Plate for rolling/coating
Serving platter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth, fluffy, and easy to work with.

2. Add the Mix-Ins

Stir in:

Most of the chopped chipped beef (reserve some)
Green onions
Cheddar cheese
Worcestershire sauce
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Mix until fully combined.

3. Shape the Cheese Ball

Place the mixture onto plastic wrap.
Gather the wrap to form a ball (or shape into a log).
Refrigerate 1–2 hours to firm up and deepen flavor.

4. Coat the Cheese Ball

Place the reserved chipped beef on a plate.
Mix with parsley or chives if you’d like color.
Roll the cheese ball in the coating until completely covered.

5. Serve

Transfer to a platter and serve chilled or slightly softened.
Pair with:

Crackers
Pretzels
Celery or carrot sticks
Toasted baguette slices

Pro Tips for the Best Cheese Ball

Soften the cream cheese fully so everything mixes smoothly.
Chill before coating or it will be too soft to roll.
Chop the beef finely for the best texture and even flavor.
Use block cream cheese–not whipped–for a firmer cheese ball.
Make ahead: Flavor improves after a few hours in the fridge.

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce.
Herb Lover’s Version: Add dill, chives, or parsley into the mix.
Extra Cheesy: Increase cheddar to 1 cup or add pepper jack.
Smoky Twist: Add a dash of smoked paprika.
Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or fresh veggies.

Serving, Pairing & Storage

Serving Ideas

Add to a holiday charcuterie board
Serve with buttery crackers
Spread on toasted baguette
Use as a dip with pretzels

Pair With

Sparkling wine or champagne
Light beers
Crisp white wines (pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc)

Storage

Refrigerator: 4–5 days, tightly wrapped
Freezer: Up to 1 month (wrap very well)
Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hrs before serving

FAQ

Can I use ham instead of chipped beef?
Yes — finely diced deli ham works well for a milder version.

Why is my cheese ball too soft?
It needs more chill time or slightly more cheese.

Can this be made as a dip instead?
Absolutely! Skip the chilling and spoon into a serving bowl.

Is chipped beef the same as dried beef?
Yes — they are used interchangeably in recipes.