Classic Cheese Ball Ranch (Printable)

Creamy, tangy cheese blend with ranch seasoning, perfect for gatherings and easy make-ahead servings.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 tablespoons, gluten-free if needed)
04 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ⅛ teaspoon 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)

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well incorporated.
02 - Fold in chopped green onions and parsley gently until evenly distributed.
03 - Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap and mold into a ball, using the wrap to shape it evenly.
04 - Refrigerate for a minimum of one hour to allow the ball to firm up.
05 - On a plate, mix chopped toasted nuts with optional chives. Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll it in the nut mixture until fully coated.
06 - Serve immediately or wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion
  • Freezes well for easy prep ahead
02 -
  • Using gluten-free ranch mix makes this recipe gluten-free
  • The cheese ball can be frozen for up to 1 month with no loss of flavor
03 -
  • For extra flavor, add ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture
  • To make nut-free, substitute toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for nuts
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