Classic Cheese Ball Ranch (Printer View)

Tangy creamy cheese ball with ranch seasoning, ideal for make-ahead snacks and gatherings.

# What you'll need:

→ Dairy

01 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Seasonings & Mix-Ins

03 - 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix (about 3 tbsp, gluten-free optional)
04 - ½ tsp garlic powder
05 - ⅛ tsp black pepper
06 - ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
07 - ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley

→ For Rolling

08 - 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
09 - ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (optional)

# Method:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and fully integrated.
02 - Gently fold in chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
03 - Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap and use the wrap to form an even ball shape.
04 - Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour until firm.
05 - Mix chopped toasted pecans and optional chives on a plate. Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll it evenly in the nut mixture.
06 - Serve immediately or wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month; thaw in refrigerator overnight before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Crowd-pleasing appetizer with bold ranch flavor
  • Easy to prepare ahead and freezer-friendly
02 -
  • This recipe contains dairy and may contain tree nuts and gluten depending on ranch mix.
  • For a nut-free version, use toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of pecans or walnuts.
03 -
  • Let the cheese ball firm up fully before rolling in nuts for best shape.
  • Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the cheese mix for smoky flavor.
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