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Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball

Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball

This Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball combines rich cream cheese with sharp cheddar and savory ranch seasoning for a delicious party appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • plastic wrap
  • parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 2 blocks cream cheese at room temperature
  • 3 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded fine and at room temperature
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning mix package
  • 6 oz bacon cooked crispy and chopped finely
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives diced and divided
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for a kick
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded and at room temperature (for coating)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 3 cups of finely shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, 1 tablespoon diced chives, cayenne pepper (if using), and several turns of freshly ground black pepper. Stir until thoroughly combined into a smooth mixture.
  • Place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on your work surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto it and shape it into a ball using the wrap to help form the shape.
  • Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the cheese ball to firm up.
  • Before serving, mix the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon pieces, and the remaining chives on a sheet of parchment paper.
  • Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the cheddar-bacon-chive mixture, pressing gently so the toppings adhere all around.
  • Serve with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables for scooping.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 220kcal
Keyword bacon, cheddar cheese, Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball, Cheese Ball, cream cheese, party appetizer
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