When I think of gatherings with friends and family, I can’t help but remember the time a surprise birthday party transformed into a bacon-filled feast that nobody could resist. This Bacon Ranch Cheddar Cheeseball is like the life of the party—bold, creamy, and so addictive that it’s hard to stop at just one bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and laughter, much like that meme that went viral last week—unexpected, yet perfectly fitting.
Steps
- Combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, shredded cheddar cheese, diced green onions, and crumbled bacon in a large bowl using a silicone spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Place the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball by gathering the wrap around it and forming it with your hands.
- Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together and the ball to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and set the cheese ball on a serving platter, pairing it with crackers, fresh vegetables, pita chips, or slices of crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 oz. packet of Ranch seasoning mix (approximately 3 tablespoons)
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, diced (or substitute with 1/3 cup diced chives)
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- White Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese
FAQ
- Can I prepare the Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to two days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
- What type of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
- It’s best to use a combination of sharp yellow and white cheddar cheese, shredded from a block for optimal flavor and texture. Monterey Jack cheese can also be added for an extra layer of taste.
- Is there a difference between Ranch seasoning mix and Ranch dip mix?
- Yes, there is a difference. Make sure to use Ranch seasoning mix for this recipe, as the Ranch dip mix has a different flavor profile and is used for different culinary purposes.
- How should the cheese ball be served?
- The cheese ball can be served as one large ball or formed into smaller bite-sized balls, which can be served with toothpicks. Accompany it with crackers, vegetables, pita chips, or crusty bread.
- How should I store the leftovers?
- Store any leftover cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, provided all the ingredients, especially the bacon and green onions, were fresh prior to preparation.
Tips
- Ensure you use Ranch seasoning mix, not Ranch dip mix, as they have different flavors and purposes within this recipe.
- For optimal taste, shred cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese in bags.
- Prepare the bacon the night before to save time and allow it to cool before mixing it with the cheese.
- Consider rolling the cheese ball in chopped pecans for an added crunchy texture.
Equipment
- Silicone spatula – Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Saran wrap (plastic wrap) – Essential for molding the cheese ball and storing it in the refrigerator.
