Description
The Bacon Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball is a flavorful and creamy appetizer perfect for any occasion. It combines the savory taste of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the tangy zest of ranch seasoning. This cheese ball is easy to make and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 package (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for coating)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for coating)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to mix until well combined and smooth.
- Add Bacon and Onions: Fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. You can use plastic wrap to help shape and compact the cheese ball if needed.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: If desired, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans and parsley until the entire surface is covered.
- Refrigerate: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Notes
- Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist. Mix in fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
- Tip: Make the cheese ball a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld together even more. If the mixture is too soft to shape, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before forming into a ball. Keep the cheese ball refrigerated until ready to serve, but let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for easier spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8th of cheese ball
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250m
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: bacon, cheddar, ranch, cheese ball, appetizer, party food, easy recipe