Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to prepare and combines fresh, crunchy cucumbers with creamy, tangy dressing and melted cheddar cheese. The beef adds a rich, savory depth that elevates the dish. It’s perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light lunch, and it’s versatile enough to serve at casual gatherings or for a cozy night in.
ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 large cucumber, diced
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup cooked beef, crumbled or finely chopped
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½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley), chopped for garnish
directions
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In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the creamy dressing.
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Add the diced cucumber to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked beef until well combined.
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Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
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Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler, more blended flavor.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time (optional): 30 minutes
Variations
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Swap the cheddar for another cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
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Add chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
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Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.
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Mix in some cooked quinoa or rice to make it more filling.
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Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This snack bowl is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as the cucumber will release water and the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use raw beef instead of cooked beef?
No, it’s important to use cooked beef to ensure food safety and the best texture in this recipe.
What type of beef works best?
Ground beef or finely chopped leftover roast beef both work well in this dish.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate. However, for best texture, add the cheddar cheese just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegan sour cream, mayo, and cheese substitutes.
What can I serve this snack bowl with?
It pairs well with crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onions can add flavor and color.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce or omit mayonnaise.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended, as the cucumber’s texture will degrade after thawing.
What herbs work best for garnish?
Chives, parsley, or dill complement the flavors nicely.
Conclusion
This creamy cucumber, cheddar, and beef snack bowl is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. It combines fresh crunch with creamy, cheesy goodness and a savory protein boost. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick snack, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.
Creamy Cucumber, Cheddar & Beef Snack Bowl
A creamy cucumber, cheddar, and beef snack bowl combining fresh, crunchy cucumbers with tangy dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory beef for a quick, flavorful snack or light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (+30 minutes chilling optional)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-cook / Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 large cucumber, diced
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup cooked beef, crumbled or finely chopped
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley), chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the creamy dressing.
- Add the diced cucumber to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked beef until well combined.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler, more blended flavor.
Notes
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Add chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.
- Mix in cooked quinoa or rice to make it more filling.
- Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; best served cold or at room temperature.
- Do not reheat to avoid texture changes due to cucumber water release.
- Use cooked beef only for food safety and best texture.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan with suitable substitutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: Approx. 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
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