These Corned Beef and Cheese Balls are a tasty treat that’s perfect for snacking! Made with savory corned beef, melty cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs, they’re so fun to eat!
Whenever I make these, they vanish in seconds. They’re great for parties, or just when you want something delicious. Just beware: you might not want to share! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Corned Beef: This is the star of the dish, bringing a unique flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can work, though the taste will change considerably.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess. Neufchâtel cheese is a great lower-fat substitute, offering similar texture without losing richness.
Shredded Mozzarella & Cheddar: These cheeses each bring a melty texture. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese shreds made from nuts or soy. For a different flavor, pepper jack or gouda could also be tasty alternatives.
Green Onions or Chives: These add freshness and a slight onion flavor. You can replace them with parsley or even dill for an alternative, bright herb taste.
Cornflakes/Breadcrumbs: Crushed cornflakes give a delicious crunch. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice cereal.
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Coat Cheese Balls?
Shaping and coating the cheese balls is pretty straightforward but needs a bit of finesse. Ensure your mixture is well combined—it should be moldable without being too wet.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to grab about 2 tablespoons of the mixture.
- Roll it gently in the palms of your hands until it’s a smooth ball.
- For coating, roll the ball in crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. Press lightly so the coating adheres well.
Chilling the balls before frying or serving helps hold their shape. If frying, be sure the oil is hot enough before adding them—in cold oil, they’ll turn soggy. Fry them until golden for that extra crunch you’re aiming for!
How to Make Corned Beef and Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cheese Balls:
- 1 can (about 12 oz) corned beef, chopped finely
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Coating:
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil (if frying, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for chilling if you choose the no-fry option. If you’re frying them, factor in a few more minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour to get these delicious snacks ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the finely chopped corned beef, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, and chopped green onions. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth enough to shape into balls. It should feel creamy and cohesive!
2. Shaping the Cheese Balls:
Now it’s time to form the cheese balls! Use a spoon or cookie scoop to take out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture. Roll this in the palms of your hands to create nice, firm balls. Try to make them as even as possible for consistency.
3. Coating the Balls:
Next, you’ll roll each cheese ball in the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. Gently press the coating onto the balls so it sticks well, creating a nice crunchy layer for later.
4. Chilling the Cheese Balls:
If you plan to serve them chilled, place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and keep their shape!
5. Serving the Cheese Balls:
Before you serve, feel free to garnish the cheese balls with some extra chopped green onions or chives for a nice pop of color and flavor. They can be served straight from the fridge as a tasty snack!
6. Frying for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you want that crispy exterior, heat some cooking oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully drop in the cheese balls, frying them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden and crispy. Make sure to drain them on paper towels afterward to remove any excess oil!
7. Enjoying Your Creation:
Serve your corned beef and cheese balls immediately, either warm and crispy from frying or chilled. They make for a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Dig in and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!
Can I Use Fresh Corned Beef Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to cook and finely chop fresh corned beef before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will add a fresh flavor to your cheese balls!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar texture. Greek yogurt is another alternative, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheese Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving!
Can I Make These Cheese Balls Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the corned beef with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils, and add some additional spices for flavor. They’ll be just as delicious and satisfyingly creamy!
