Classic Cheese Ball Ranch (Printable)

Tangy, creamy cheese ball packed with ranch and herbs, ideal for snacking or entertaining.

# What You Need:

→ Dairy

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

→ Seasonings & Mix-Ins

03 - 3 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix (gluten-free option)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
06 - 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
07 - 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

→ For Rolling

08 - 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
09 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)

# How-To:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and uniform.
02 - Gently fold in chopped green onions and parsley into the cheese mixture.
03 - Transfer mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and form into a smooth ball using the wrap to assist shaping.
04 - Refrigerate the shaped ball for a minimum of one hour until firm to touch.
05 - Mix toasted chopped nuts and chives (if using) on a plate. Unwrap chilled ball and roll completely in nut mixture to coat evenly.
06 - Serve immediately or wrap tightly for freezing up to one month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Packed with bold ranch flavor in every bite
  • Easy make-ahead dish that freezes well for entertaining
02 -
  • For a nut-free version, roll in toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin
  • This cheese ball contains dairy and may contain gluten, depending on ranch mix used
03 -
  • Soften cream cheese completely for the smoothest texture
  • Freeze the cheese ball in plastic wrap for up to a month for advance prep
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