This easy bacon ranch cheese ball combines creamy cheese, tangy ranch, and crispy bacon bits into a perfect party appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a savory treat that pairs wonderfully with Ritz crackers or pretzels.
If you love cheese balls, you should also try my Greek Pimento Cheese Ball and Pecan Crusted Cheese Ball recipes!
We've made this bacon ranch cheese ball for football tailgating and various parties, where it’s always a hit. It’s a regular at any gathering because everyone devours it, often leaving none behind.
Ingredients
This bacon ranch cheese ball is a delectable mix of savory and creamy ingredients that come together to create a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The key ingredients include:
- Cream cheese (16 oz. block)
- Dry ranch dip mix (1 oz. package)
- Real bacon bits (3 oz. package)
- Shredded cheddar or cheddar jack (1 cup)
- Sour cream (2 tablespoons)
Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
How to Make Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball
This classic cheese ball is super easy with very little prep time! Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the step-by-step instructions. The general steps are as follows:
- Mix all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. No need for a hand mixer, a rubber spatula is just fine.
- Wrap cream cheese mixture into a large piece of plastic wrap and form into a ball.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Best Tips and FAQ
How long should I refrigerate the cheeseball?
Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 30 minutes. This allows it to firm up and makes it easier to handle and serve.
Can I use imitation bacon bits?
For the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to use real bacon bits. Imitation bacon can lack the same smoky taste and crunch of real salty bacon.
Ranch Dip Mix vs Dry Ranch Dressing Mix
Look for the ranch seasoning mix for dips instead of the ranch salad seasoning mix, for strongest flavor. Both are dry mixes in 1 oz packages, but the dip mix is specifically formulated to be more concentrated and robust, providing a richer and more intense taste.
Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball pairs well with crackers (such as Ritz), pretzels, fresh vegetable sticks (like carrots and celery), or even sliced baguette.
Recipe Variations
Lower-fat: You can use reduced-fat cream cheese as a substitute, for a lower-fat version. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
Spice it up: To add a bit of heat, consider mixing in a small amount of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños. Or, use pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheddar cheese.
Onion: To add a layer of complexity and slightly pungent flavor, try mixing in chopped green onions or chives to the cheese ball mixture.
More Cheesy Appetizer Ideas
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Photography by Lindsay Evers.
Recipe Card
Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese , at room temperature
- 1 oz package dry ranch dip mix (not salad dressing mix, use the dip mix)
- 3 oz package real bacon bits (not imitation bacon)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or cheddar jack
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Place large piece of plastic wrap on the counter and transfer cream cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic. Wrap mixture in plastic wrap and form into a ball.
- Refrigerate at least 30 minutes. Serve with Ritz crackers, pretzels, or veggies.
Notes
- Optional: Roll finished cheese ball into extra bacon pieces, cheese and sliced green onions for a decorative presentation.
- Can be frozen, but not recommended.
- Cheese ball can last in the fridge, if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 7 days.
- Nutritional information is an estimate only.
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