Savory Mini Cheese Balls with Dried Beef
These delightful Savory Mini Cheese Balls are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic cheese ball. Perfect for parties and gatherings, these bite-sized morsels are creamy, salty, and satisfyingly cheesy. The combination of smooth cream cheese and sharp Parmesan, accented by the briny notes of green olives and the savory crunch of dried beef, creates an irresistible snack that's great for buffets or as finger food. Easy to prepare, these mini cheese balls can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests while they savor every delicious bite.
30
Servings
24
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (shredded)
green olives
1/3 cup (chopped)
dried beef
1 jar (chopped into fine pieces)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded parmesan cheese, and chopped green olives. Mix until well blended and smooth.
2
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into 1-inch balls (or smaller for bite-sized snacks).
3
On a plate or shallow dish, spread the chopped dried beef evenly.
4
Roll each cheese ball in the dried beef until fully coated, pressing lightly to ensure adherence.
5
Arrange the coated mini cheese balls on a serving platter. For added flair, insert decorative toothpicks into each cheese ball for easy serving.
Nutrition Information
1.87g
Fat
0.8g
Carbs
1.2g
Protein
40mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Mini Cheese Balls?
They are bite-sized appetizers made of cream cheese, parmesan, and olives, rolled in a coating of dried beef.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 30 mini cheese balls.
What are the main ingredients?
The primary ingredients are cream cheese, parmesan cheese, green olives, and dried beef.
How many calories are in one cheese ball?
Each serving contains about 24 calories.
What kind of cheese is used?
The recipe uses softened cream cheese and shredded parmesan cheese.
Can I use pre-shredded parmesan?
Yes, shredded parmesan works well for this recipe.
How do I soften the cream cheese?
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes until it is easy to mix.
What type of olives should I use?
The recipe calls for chopped green olives, which provide a distinct briny flavor.
What is dried beef?
Dried beef is salt-cured, lean beef that is typically sold in jars and provides a savory, salty crunch.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve them.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze these cheese balls?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese may become crumbly once thawed.
How big should each cheese ball be?
Aim for approximately 1 inch in diameter or smaller for bite-sized snacks.
What can I use if I do not have dried beef?
You can substitute dried beef with finely chopped ham, cooked bacon bits, or crushed nuts.
Are these cheese balls gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the specific labels on your dried beef and olives.
Can I add nuts to the coating?
Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the beef coating can add extra texture and flavor.
What should I serve these with?
They are excellent on their own or can be served alongside crackers and vegetable sticks.
How do I serve them for a party?
Arrange them on a platter and insert decorative toothpicks into each cheese ball for easy serving.
Can I use black olives instead of green?
Yes, black olives can be used as a substitute for a milder flavor profile.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 1.87g of fat per mini cheese ball.
How much protein is in each ball?
Each mini cheese ball provides about 1.2g of protein.
Is this a low-carb snack?
Yes, with only 0.8g of carbohydrates per serving, these are a low-carb option.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, though the texture and richness may vary slightly from the full-fat version.
How long does it take to make?
Preparation is quick, involving only mixing, shaping, and coating the ingredients.
Do I need any special equipment?
No, you only need a mixing bowl, a plate, and your hands for shaping the balls.
Can I add spices to the mixture?
Yes, garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs can be added to the cheese mix for extra depth.
Why roll them in dried beef?
The dried beef adds a savory, salty crunch that perfectly complements the creamy center.
Are these suitable for children?
Yes, the bite-sized portions and mild cheesy flavor are usually very popular with kids.
What is the sodium content?
Each serving has approximately 40mg of sodium.
Can I use a different type of meat for the coating?
Yes, finely chopped summer sausage or prosciutto can also be used as a savory coating.