Description
This bacon cheddar ranch cheese ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Loaded with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a touch of ranch seasoning, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or game day spreads.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 g) cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup (25 g) chopped green onions (optional)
For the coating:
- 1/4 cup (60 g) cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For serving:
- Crackers, pretzels, or vegetable sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, and green onions (if using). Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the cheese ball:
- Scoop the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the wrap to form the mixture into a ball. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Coat the cheese ball:
- In a shallow dish, mix the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and parsley (if using). Roll the chilled cheese ball in the coating mixture until evenly covered.
- Serve:
- Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and surround it with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
- Make the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance; add the coating just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.