For When You’re Feeling “Snacky”

Jarlsberg Cheese and Corned Beef Spread combines creamy horseradish, green onion, and cream cheese for a salty, savory snack that feels like a mini corned beef sandwich. It’s an ideal choice for evenings when you want something small rather than a full meal. The spread keeps in the refrigerator for at least a week, so it’s perfect to prepare in advance for unexpected guests or quick afternoon bites.
My appreciation for Jarlsberg started while working in a grocery store cheese department. Its mildly sweet, nutty flavor makes it a favorite when you want something richer than a standard Swiss-style cheese. Though often compared to Swiss, Jarlsberg is Norwegian and brings its own distinctive profile.
This recipe was created to pair perfectly with Gardetto’s little rye crisps, but it’s equally good with any sturdy cracker. I wanted something creamy, salty, and meaty that would mimic the flavors of a corned beef sandwich—and this spread does just that. It improves after a day or two in the fridge as the flavors meld, so I often make a batch and snack on it for several days.

Worcestershire Powder

Worcestershire powder is listed in the ingredients because it gives a concentrated, savory punch that’s stronger than the liquid sauce. If you don’t have the powder, you can substitute liquid Worcestershire—use about double the amount called for by weight or taste as you go. The powder’s concentrated flavor helps brighten the spread without adding extra moisture.

The Cheese

Jarlsberg is commonly available in the specialty cheese section at most grocery stores. If you can’t find it, a good-quality Swiss cheese is an acceptable substitute—just grate it on the coarse side so the shreds remain substantial in the spread.


Jarlsberg Cheese and Corned Beef Spread Recipe
Jarlsberg and Corned Beef Cheese Spread flavored with creamy horseradish and green onion. It’s especially tasty on rye crackers and develops more depth after resting in the fridge. A simple, make-ahead spread to keep on hand for snacking.
Ingredients
- 8 ounce package of cream cheese
- 8 ounce package of Jarlsberg cheese (or Swiss)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire powder or 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons celery salt
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 packages Buddig corned beef (about 4 ounces total)
- 1 tablespoon creamy horseradish, or to taste
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 6 green onions
- 8–10 chives
- 1 bag Gardetto’s rye crisps or crackers of your choice
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and beat it in a bowl or stand mixer on high until light and fluffy.
- Reduce the mixer speed to medium and add Worcestershire, onion powder, celery salt, black pepper, mayonnaise, and creamy horseradish.
- Beat on high for 2 minutes to incorporate the seasonings.
- Very finely slice the white and green parts of the green onions and add them to the mixer.
- Grate the cheese on the thick side of the grater so you have large shreds.
- Very finely dice the corned beef.
- On low speed, slowly add the grated cheese, then the diced corned beef, mixing until evenly combined.
- Very finely slice the chives.
- Transfer the spread to a covered bowl, spread it evenly, and top with the sliced chives. Refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with rye crisps or your preferred crackers.
- Store the spread in the refrigerator; it keeps for at least a week.