A Twist On a NYE Favorite

If you know me personally, or have been following the blog for a while now, you know we have a very fun tradition in this house for New Year's Eve. It doesn't involve getting all dressed up, or heading out with the masses. What it does involve is plenty of family time and yummy food. Each December 31st we ring in the new year here at home, just the 3 of us, watching movies or holiday specials, or even mixed martial arts on the tv, all while enjoying a buffet of our favorite appetizers. I filled the table with a huge variety of our most enjoyed "nibbly bits" (as Alex calls them) and we eat all night long, warm and safe in our home.

Today's recipe is a new twist on one of my husband's favorite things I put out on this buffet every year. Probably what is the most simple appetizer ever created. Dried Beef Rolls. You've had these, right?? Cream cheese spread on dried beef, rolled and cut into bite sized pieces. I still remember the first year I made them for him. I had all these amazing dishes sitting out, some kind of complicated, and these simple rolls that took me all of 10 minutes to make were the one thing he was most excited about. The thing he went on and on about. The thing he could not get enough of. I was like "All of this food, and that is what you are most excited about?" Hey, he likes the simple things, what can I say? So every year since they are always included in our New Year's Eve feast.

But this year I will be switching it up just a little, with this fantastic dip that is super tasty, and almost just as easy. It really doesn't take much more time and has incredible flavor. It would be perfect for any holiday party, rather it be next week for Christmas, or if like me you're already planning how to welcome in 2014. It will be here before we know it!

Creamy Beef Spread From Hometown Christmas

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, at room temperature

1/4 c. sour cream

1/4 c. mayo

1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese

1 green onion, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish

1 (2.5 oz.) jar dried beefy, finely chopped and divided

In a bowl beat cream cheese until smooth. Add remaining ingredients, reserving 2 TBS dried beef. Mix well and transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with reserved beef and extra onion. Cover and chill until serving. Serve with crackers.

Shared on The Country Cook Dec. 20, 2013