Classic Cheese Ball Ranch (Printable)

Creamy cheese ball blended with sharp cheddar and ranch seasoning, ideal for easy entertaining.

# What You Need:

→ Dairy

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

→ Seasonings & Mix-Ins

03 - 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix (about 3 tablespoons; use 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 toasted pecans or walnuts
09 - ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and homogenous.
02 - Gently fold in chopped green onions and parsley to maintain texture.
03 - Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape it into a ball, using the wrap to ensure even form.
04 - Refrigerate the shaped ball for a minimum of 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
05 - Combine chopped pecans (and chives, if using) on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the mixture to coat evenly.
06 - Serve immediately or wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for less stress on party day
  • Crowd-pleasing flavor combo with ranch, cheddar, and fresh herbs
02 -
  • Use gluten-free ranch mix for a GF option
  • The cheese ball can be made nut-free by using seeds instead of nuts
03 -
  • For extra flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon to the mix
  • Shape and freeze up to a month ahead for easy entertaining
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