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Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball

A creamy and savory cheese ball coated in crispy bacon and nuts, perfect for parties and potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 blocks cream cheese, softened (room temperature)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp or mild, your choice
  • 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, chopped plus 1/2 cup more for rolling
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Rolling
  • 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds optional — omit for nut-free
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Serving
  • Crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks (carrots, celery, bell pepper)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soften the cream cheese: leave the blocks at room temperature for 30–60 minutes or microwave briefly in 5–7 second bursts until malleable.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir until smooth.
  3. Add 1/2 cup chopped crispy bacon, chopped green onions, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so flavors are even.
  4. Use your hands or a spatula to form the mixture into a tight ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap to keep the shape.
  5. Refrigerate the wrapped ball for at least 1 hour to firm up (or up to overnight for better flavor melding).
  6. While chilling, combine the rolling mixture: 1/2 cup chopped bacon, chopped nuts (if using), and parsley in a shallow bowl.
  7. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and place it on a clean plate. Roll it in the bacon-nut mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres and forms an even coating.
  8. Transfer to a serving platter, surround with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks, and serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Chilling overnight improves texture and flavor because the herbs and seasonings have time to infuse the cream cheese. For a lighter option, offer veggie sticks like cucumbers, carrot batons, celery, and bell pepper. You can make mini versions for single-serve appetizers.