Save A creamy, tangy cheese ball packed with ranch flavor, perfect for parties and make-ahead entertaining. Freezes beautifully for stress-free snacking.
This cheese ball quickly became a go-to for holiday gatherings in our family. I remember shaping it with my kids, then watching it disappear within minutes as guests arrived.
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Ingredients
- Dairy: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened; 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Seasonings & Mix-Ins: 1 oz (28 g) dry ranch seasoning mix (about 3 Tbsp); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/8 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup (25 g) finely chopped green onions; 1/4 cup (30 g) finely chopped fresh parsley
- For Rolling: 1 cup (100 g) chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped fresh chives (optional)
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Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Add Mix-Ins:
- Fold in green onions and parsley.
- Shape:
- Transfer mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Shape into a ball using the wrap to help form it evenly.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Coat with Nuts:
- On a plate, mix the chopped pecans (and chives if using). Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the nut mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve or Freeze:
- Serve immediately or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Save Making this with my kids is a fun holiday tradition. They love rolling the cheese ball and sneaking bites of the nut coating as we work together in the kitchen.
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Required Tools
Mixing bowl, rubber spatula or wooden spoon, plastic wrap, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar cheese). Contains tree nuts (pecans, walnuts) if used. May contain gluten if using a non-GF ranch mix. Double-check ranch seasoning and all packaged ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 6 g
Save 
Serve with crackers or veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It always disappears fast, so stash one in the freezer for surprise guests.
Recipe FAQ
- → How long should the cheese ball chill before serving?
It should refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, ensuring easy rolling and better flavor melding.
- → Can I freeze the cheese ball for later use?
Yes, it freezes well up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.
- → What nuts can be used for rolling the cheese ball?
Toasted pecans or walnuts are traditional, but sunflower or pumpkin seeds work as nut-free alternatives.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the cheese ball?
Mix in ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory boost.
- → What are good serving suggestions for the cheese ball?
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a tasty, crowd-pleasing option.
