I have been making this recipe for so long, I don’t even remember how I came across it. All I knew is everyone loved it and there was no greater joy than watching my uncle gleefully go back for as many crackers as he could eat and be happy to take any leftovers off of our hands. Sometimes, after making a dish for years, you get burned out on making your “signature” dish and someone else will offer to make it. You give them the exact recipe and inevitably they decide that “eh, it didn’t need scallions” or omit something else that makes the cheeseball, well, the cheeseball!
Obviously, you can alter this however you like and make your own version that is suited to your family’s taste. Use a little sour cream if you want a dip consistency, use fresh dill and garlic powder in lieu of the packaged powder if you’re looking to go “natural”, use ham over beef. The possibilites are endless.
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Notes
Half the recipe for an intimate gathering. This recipe feeds a crowd of thirty with about 4-6 crackers per person.
Ingredients
- 3 blocked Neufchatel (1/3 less fat) cream cheese, softened
- 3 packages of pressed beef (like Carl Buddig, not the jarred kind)
- 1 bunch scallions, diced
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Powder (not the dip powder)
- 1 box of crackers of your choice
Instructions
- Cut off the root ends of the scallions and dice the whole bunch and set aside.
- Stack the pressed beef and cut into small, bite sized pieces.
- To a large bowl, add the 3 blocks of softened, low fat cream cheese then add the Hidden Valley Ranch powder.
- Mix the powder into the cream cheese and when it’s thoroughly combined, then add the chopped scallions and stir until it comes together.
- Add the cut pressed beef and stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- If you want to let the flavor develop, cover it and refrigerate overnight.
- When you’re ready to serve, transfer it to a platter or large plate and surround the cheeseball with your favorite crackers like butter rounds or wheat crisps. This is a hearty dip so the sturdier the cracker, the better!
17 Comments
Looks yummy. My cheeseballl is unique to most people’s. I need to give yours a try too!
Thank you! You can always cut the recipe by 2/3 for “research” purposes. 😉
I love cheese balls – so easy and great for entertaining. Thanks for sharing with us at #BloggersPitStop.
You are absolutely right!
This dip looks perfect for a football game, or a party! I’ve never had Neufchatel cream cheese. I will have to look for it the next time I go to the store. Thanks for sharing the recipe over at Foodie Friday!
It is perfect for any gathering and goes quickly! The Neufchatel (1/3 less fat) still has a great cream cheese flavor to it but lets the other ingredients shine too.
You have a great combination for your awesome Cheeseball! Thanks so much for sharing your post with us at Full Plate Thursday. Have a great week and come back soon!
Miz Helen
Thank you! You have a great week as well!
Looks very tasty!
Good gravy, I need to step up my game. We made this dip growing up and it was delicious. But add in scallions and ranch?? Holy cats, this looks amazing. I may make it for dinner one night.
Bwaahaha! I’m sure you wouldn’t be the first to make a meal out of it. (*raising hand*)
What a wonderful, flavourful cheeseball! It’s perfect for entertaining, buffets and game day! Thank you so much for sharing it with us at the Hearth and Soul Link party!
You know it! It’s a crowd pleaser!
Wow, tasty! This looks like something my husband and boys would love! Thanks for sharing at Party in Your PJs!
It’s hard to resist, I can tell ya that! One cracker’s worth and you’re diving in head first! 😀
This sounds wonderful! Thanks for sharing it with us at the Homestead Blog Hop!
You’re very welcome!