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Easy Lighter Dried Beef Everything Cheese Ball

easy lighter dried beef everything cheese ball - featured image

A lighter, healthier twist on the classic cheese ball, made with Neufchâtel and Greek yogurt, packed with savory dried beef and coated in everything bagel seasoning. Perfect for parties or a quick snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz Neufchâtel cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 2.5 oz dried beef, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (about 3–4 green onions)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Soften the Neufchâtel: Take cream cheese out of fridge at least 30 minutes before starting. If in a hurry, cut into small cubes and microwave on 50% power for 10-15 seconds until soft but not melted.
  2. Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened Neufchâtel and Greek yogurt. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl.
  3. Add the flavorings: Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Beat on low speed until just combined.
  4. Fold in the dried beef and green onions: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in finely chopped dried beef and green onions until evenly distributed.
  5. Shape the cheese ball: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on counter. Scoop cheese mixture onto center. Use plastic wrap to shape into a ball. Twist top to secure.
  6. Chill the cheese ball: Place wrapped cheese ball in refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Prepare the coating: About 10 minutes before serving, combine everything bagel seasoning and chopped parsley (if using) in a small shallow dish.
  8. Roll the cheese ball: Unwrap chilled cheese ball. Roll gently in seasoning mixture, pressing lightly so seasoning sticks. Pat seasoning onto any bare spots.
  9. Final chill: Place coated cheese ball back in fridge for 15-30 minutes to let coating set (optional but recommended).
  10. Serve: Place on serving platter surrounded by crackers, vegetable sticks, or crusty bread. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chill time is crucial for texture and flavor melding. For best results, make ahead up to 3 days. Do not freeze coated cheese ball. If mixture is too sticky, refrigerate 15 minutes before shaping. If too dry, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, dried beef, everything bagel seasoning, lighter, Neufchâtel, Greek yogurt, party appetizer, easy