Do you need a killer appetizer or maybe a little snack for a few round robins during New Year festivities? My Dried Beef and Green Onion Cheese Ball is perfect for a quick appetizer, or maybe a few drop in guests.

My aunt always made a cheese ball similar to this during the holidays, and it was one of my favorite snacks when we visited during the holidays. Perfect to grab from the fridge, and super easy clean-up.
So what is a cheese ball? My husband never had a cheese ball before, and when I was describing it to him he was skeptical, but once he tried this cheese ball I think he ate half of it. I recently made another one for him to munch on while he watches t.v. at night. Side note: I still haven't found season 13 of Criminal Minds. If anyone can tell me where I can watch it I have a special prize for you.
This cheese ball is loaded is creamy cream cheese, salty dried beef, zesty ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce and a spice from sliced fresh green onions. That is it! I have seen some recipes that use a different seasoning blend, but I find the flavors of the buttermilk ranch packet to be perfect for me (and clearly my husband). Once assembled, the cheese ball is wrapped and sets in the fridge. Once it is set, unwrap and serve! So nice and simple!
I am planning to make another cheese ball to have out during New Year's since my husband will have the other one devoured pretty quickly. I know it will be a fast hit with our guests.
Do you have any go to New Year's appetizers? Anything super simple you want to share with this mom?? Since the boys will be with us quick and easy is the name of my game.
Wisconsin is having a cold snap, and we are getting towards the end of the boys winter break. I know that I am getting ready for the boys to go back to school, but overall it has been a really nice week with the boys and we had a chance to spend quality time together- last night included going out for tacos and going to an open swim!
Looking for more cheese ball recipes for the holidays and entertaining?
Everything But The Bagel Cheese Ball
Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls
Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls
Ham and Pineapple Cheese Ball from Kylee Cooks
Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball from Kylee Cooks
Roasted Garlic Cheese Ball from Life’s Ambrosia
Check out more delicious New Year's appetizers:
Glazed Smoked Sausage and Pineapple Bites
Cranberry Brie and Rosemary Bites
Dried Beef and Green Onion Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 16 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- .4 oz buttermilk ranch seasoning packet
- 2 oz package dried beef, chopped
- 6 green onion, sliced
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, stir together cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and ranch seasoning till smooth.
- Next, stir in the beef and green onion. Gently stir till the mixture is evenly mixed.
- Cut a 12-inch piece of plastic wrap and then cut a second of the same size. Create a cross shape. Repeat this once more. This will allow you to easily wrap the cheese ball and get a round shape.
- Place the cheese mixture in the center of the plastic wrap. Wrap in the sides until the cheese is secure and round it gently with your hands. Place on a plate in the fridge to set for at least 2 hours before serving. Once opened the cheese ball will keep for about a week and a half if stored in an air tight container.
- To serve, unwrap and place on a plate. Serve with crackers and veggies.
Danielle Wolter
My mom used to make this hot beef dip using dried beef and I loved it so much. It started my love affair with dried beef 🙂 I def need to try this recipe!
Veena Azmanov
I must admit I have never eaten dried beef. Not sure why? I love beef and make it often. Eaten sausages too. This cheese ball sounds so delicious. The flavors are spot on.
Mahy Elamin
this sounds delicious and quick too! i love to make cheese balls for parties.. pinned to make for the superbowl. thanks for sharing, happy new year!
Marisa Franca
My Mother-in-law used to make this every holiday season!! We loved it!! In fact, we have a gathering coming up soon and this would be ideal. Also, wouldn't it be great to make for Super Bowl? I can't wait to make your recipe. Our kids have probably forgotten the delicious appetizer Grandma used to make.
Emmeline
This is such a great idea! I've never made a cheese ball or even had it but now that I'm seeing amazing versions like this one (esp. love the use of ranch seasoning - is there any better flavor really??) I really have to try!
Jeffrey A Knapp
Awesome awesome awesome always had this for the holidays..its a. Great addition to any meal
Ashley Lecker
They are sooooo good. I look forward to it each year.
Amy (Savory Moments)
My mom used to make a dip similar in flavor to this and I always liked it! I bet we would all enjoy this cheese ball.
Erin Vasicek
Mmm I am weak for cheese balls and this sounds delicious!
Jane
I have not been able to find dried beef for Some time now.
I could always count on shop rite to have it but haven’t seen it there in a few years.
Ashley Lecker
A good alternative is the buddings dried beef- it is typically by the deli meat.