This savory Beef Log appetizer combines classic mid-century party fare with creamy and tangy ingredients. Featuring cream cheese, Parmesan, olives, horseradish, and dried beef, it’s a nostalgic spread or roll often served with crackers or cocktail rye. Ideal for holidays, game nights, or retro gatherings, the log can be shaped and chilled in advance for fuss-free serving. It’s bold, salty, and creamy, a crowd-pleaser that delivers flavor in every slice.
Ingredients
- 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated )
- ¼ cup olives (chopped )
- 2 tsp horseradish (optional, to taste)
- 3 oz Dried Beef (slivered)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Base
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Parmesan, chopped olives, and horseradish (if using).
- Mash and stir together with a fork until fully blended.
Step 2: Prepare Beef
- Slice the dried beef into thin strips or slivers.
- Add to the cream cheese mixture and mix until evenly distributed.
- Note: The recipe creator advises not using the entire 3 oz if it seems like too much.
Step 3: Shape and Chill
- Shape mixture into two smaller logs or one large ball/log.
- Wrap tightly in waxed paper and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips
- Roll the log in chopped parsley, nuts, or cracked pepper for texture.
- Add minced green onions for extra flavor.
- Increase horseradish for a spicier version.
- Replace olives with pimentos or chopped pickles.
- Form into a cheese ball instead of logs for easier scooping.
- Add Worcestershire sauce for savory depth.
- Use only part of the dried beef (as the card notes) for milder saltiness.
- Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or baguette slices.
- Mix in a dash of garlic powder for added aroma.
- Chill before serving for firmer texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 65kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 185mgPotassium: 37mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 211IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 0.2mg
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