# 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.