Looking for a delicious and easy appetizer for your next gathering? Look no further than this Bacon Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball! Packed with savory flavors and a creamy texture, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any party or event.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of bacon, cheddar, and ranch creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this cheese ball ready to serve in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Ingredient Notes:
- Cream cheese: Provides the creamy base for the cheese ball.
- Ranch dressing: Adds a tangy flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
- Chopped chives: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a bold, cheesy taste.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture.
- Butter crackers: Perfect for serving with the cheese ball.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped chives until well combined.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll it in the remaining bacon and chopped walnuts until coated.
- Chill the cheese ball in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
- Serve with butter crackers and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add in some chopped veggies for extra flavor.
- To make ahead, store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite nuts or herbs.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Bacon Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, and a side of fruit for a complete appetizer spread.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked bacon will save you time and still deliver great flavor. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, but sharp cheddar works best for this recipe. - How far in advance can I make this cheese ball?
You can make this cheese ball up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Conclusion:
Next time you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing appetizer, give this Bacon Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball a try. With its irresistible flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Bacon Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 1 cheese ball 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Bacon Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball is a creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings. Packed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and ranch dressing, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit at any party.
Ingredients
Main Cheese Ball:
-
- 16 ounce cream cheese blocks, room temperature
- 3 tbsp bottled ranch dressing (e.g., Hidden Valley Ranch original)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp chopped chives, divided
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- ¾ cup bacon crumbles (from a 12-ounce package center-cut bacon, cooked & crumbled)
Coating:
-
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
Optional:
- Butter crackers (e.g., RITZ brand)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, pepper, chives, cheddar cheese, and half of the bacon crumbles. Mix until well combined.
- Shape into a Ball: Form the mixture into a ball shape and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Coat with Walnuts: Roll the cheese ball in the finely chopped walnuts and remaining bacon crumbles until fully coated.
- Serve: Serve with butter crackers and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the coating by using different nuts or herbs for added flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch dressing and bacon to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg