Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further! This Cheese Ball with Buddig Beef recipe is surprisingly delicious, incredibly simple to make, and perfect for any gathering. Forget those boring store-bought snacks; this homemade creation is bursting with flavor and texture, offering a unique twist on a classic party favorite. It's the perfect blend of savory and creamy, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual get-togethers and more formal occasions. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, especially when you need a last-minute appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Buddig beef, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (for rolling)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This ensures a perfectly smooth and spreadable cheese ball. A stand mixer or hand mixer works well, but you can also do this by hand with a little elbow grease!
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Mix in the Ingredients: Add the finely chopped Buddig beef, green onions, pecans (if using), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl. Gently mix all ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. Be careful not to overmix.
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Shape the Cheese Ball: Once everything is well incorporated, use your hands to shape the mixture into a ball. If the mixture feels too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up slightly before shaping.
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Roll in Cheese: Place the shredded cheddar cheese on a plate. Roll the cheese ball in the cheese until it's completely coated. This adds a beautiful visual appeal and extra cheesy flavor.
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Chill and Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up. This step is crucial for a perfect consistency.
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Enjoy!: Serve your delicious homemade cheese ball with crackers, breadsticks, or vegetables.
Tips for the Best Cheese Ball:
- Soften the cream cheese completely: This is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture. You can speed up the process by microwaving it for short intervals, but be careful not to overheat it.
- Finely chop the ingredients: This ensures a consistent texture throughout the cheese ball.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the cheese ball tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill thoroughly: Chilling allows the flavors to develop and the cheese ball to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheese Ball: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Ranch Cheese Ball: Substitute the Worcestershire sauce with ranch seasoning for a tangier flavor profile.
- Bacon Cheese Ball: Add 1/4 cup of crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator website, inputting the specific ingredients and quantities used.
This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are quick to make and healthy too. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy creating this easy and impressive appetizer!