Pin it A creamy, tangy cheese ball packed with ranch flavor, perfect for parties and make-ahead entertaining. Freezes beautifully for stress-free snacking.
I first made this classic cheese ball for a family holiday gathering and everyone was hooked after the very first taste. There&s something about the creamy texture and that punchy ranch flavor that makes it irresistible at every occasion.
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Ingredients
- Dairy: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- Dairy: 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Seasonings & Mix-Ins: 1 oz (28 g) dry ranch seasoning mix (about 3 Tbsp: use gluten-free if needed)
- Seasonings & Mix-Ins: ½ tsp garlic powder
- Seasonings & Mix-Ins: ⅛ tsp black pepper
- Seasonings & Mix-Ins: ¼ cup (25 g) finely chopped green onions
- Seasonings & Mix-Ins: ¼ cup (30 g) finely chopped fresh parsley
- For Rolling: 1 cup (100 g) chopped pecans or walnuts: toasted
- For Rolling: ¼ cup (30 g) chopped fresh chives (optional)
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Instructions
- Combine 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.
- Fold in Veggies:
- 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.
- Roll & Coat:
- 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.
Pin it My kids always rush to help roll the cheese ball in nuts: and it&s become our pre-party tradition. Watching everyone gathered around dipping crackers is the best part of any celebration.
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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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180: Total Fat: 15 g: Carbohydrates: 3 g: Protein: 6 g (per serving)
Pin it 
This cheese ball is best made ahead so the flavors have time to blend. Serve chilled for the perfect appetizer at any celebration.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I shape the cheese ball evenly?
Use plastic wrap to gather the mixed cheese blend and gently mold it into a smooth, round ball by hand before chilling.
- → Can I prepare the cheese ball in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate for at least an hour or freeze the finished ball for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- → What nuts work best for coating?
Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy, flavorful coating, but toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds are great nut-free options.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the mix?
Try folding in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory twist that complements the ranch seasoning well.
- → What are good pairings with this cheese ball?
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wine pairs nicely too.
