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Savory Cheese Ball with Bacon and Ranch

savory cheese ball - featured image

A quick and easy party snack combining creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch seasoning for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (110 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 packet (1 tbsp) ranch dressing mix
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Crushed pecans or chopped extra bacon for rolling

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Add ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped green onions. Mix until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Fold in 4-5 tablespoons of crumbled bacon, reserving some for coating the cheese ball.
  4. Place plastic wrap on the countertop, spoon the cheese mixture onto the center, and shape into a tight 4-inch diameter ball. Wrap tightly and chill for at least 1 hour.
  5. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the reserved bacon crumbles and chopped parsley until fully coated. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Notes

Do not rush cooking bacon; crispy bacon adds essential crunch and smokiness. Soften cream cheese well before mixing to avoid lumps. Chilling the cheese ball is key for firm texture and flavor melding. Rolling in extra bacon or nuts adds texture contrast and saltiness. Can be made ahead and chilled overnight for best flavor. Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, bacon, ranch, party snack, appetizer, easy recipe, creamy cheese, savory snack