Get ready to transform your appetizer game with a crowd-pleasing sensation that's about to become the star of every gathering! This Buttermilk Ranch Bacon Cheese Ball isn't just a recipe; it's a flavor explosion that combines creamy, tangy, and savory elements into one irresistible bite. Whether you're hosting a game day party, family reunion, or just craving a delicious snack, this cheese ball will have everyone coming back for more and asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup buttermilk ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and allow to soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, place the softened cream cheese and use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, buttermilk ranch dressing, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and fresh parsley to the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will help the flavors meld and make the mixture easier to shape.
- Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and use clean hands to shape it into a compact ball.
- If using nuts, spread them on a flat plate. Gently roll the cheese ball in the chopped nuts, pressing lightly to ensure they adhere to the surface.
- Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to develop.
- Serve chilled with crackers, vegetable sticks, or toasted bread for dipping. Best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Ensure cream cheese is truly at room temperature for the smoothest texture.
- Use high-quality bacon for maximum flavor impact.
- Let the cheese ball rest in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- For a gourmet touch, toast your nuts before rolling the cheese ball for enhanced flavor.
- Make ahead of time - this recipe actually tastes better after flavors have developed for a few hours.
- Experiment with different nut varieties like pecans, almonds, or walnuts for unique texture.
- For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
