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Savory Cheese Ball with Bacon and Ranch

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A quick and easy party snack featuring a creamy cheese ball blended with ranch seasoning and smoky bacon, perfect for last-minute guests or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups (200 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6–8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 packet (or 1 tablespoon homemade) ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook and crumble the bacon: Fry 6-8 thick-cut bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to drain and cool, then crumble into small pieces. Alternatively, microwave bacon on a plate lined with paper towels for 4-6 minutes.
  2. Soften the cream cheese: Let the 8 ounces of cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to achieve a spreadable consistency.
  3. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1 packet ranch seasoning, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and fresh black pepper to taste. Stir well until smooth and evenly blended (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Add fresh elements: Fold in 2 finely chopped green onions and half of the crumbled bacon (reserve the rest for coating).
  5. Shape the cheese ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a tight ball (about 6 inches in diameter). Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  6. Coat the cheese ball: Remove from fridge and unwrap. Roll the cheese ball in the reserved crumbled bacon and chopped fresh parsley, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
  7. Final chill: Place the coated cheese ball on a serving plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and chill for another 15 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Bring the cheese ball out about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Pair with your favorite crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Notes

Soften cream cheese for 15 minutes before mixing to avoid lumps. Use crispy bacon for best texture. Chill the cheese ball to firm up before shaping and coating. Bring out 10-15 minutes before serving for best spreadable texture. For dairy-free or vegetarian versions, substitute cream cheese and bacon accordingly.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/savory-cheese-ball-with-bacon-and-ranch-recipe-easy-perfect-party-snack/