Introduction

This irresistible cheddar ranch cheese ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, it’s simple to make and pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh veggies.

Irresistible Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball Recipe You’ll Love! Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet ranch dressing mix
2 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (or substitute with sunflower seeds)

Instructions

Step 1: Take the cream cheese out of the fridge and let it soften for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, and chopped green onions. Mix well using a spatula or an electric mixer on low speed until fully blended.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands once it’s thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Spread the chopped walnuts or your chosen substitute on a large piece of plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the nuts until it’s completely coated.
Step 5: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 6: Remove from the fridge just before serving, place on a platter, and serve with crackers, fresh veggies, or pretzel sticks.

Tips & Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the mixture.
Use sunflower seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free version.
Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten the flavor.
Try rolling the cheese ball in crushed pretzels or crispy bacon bits for a different texture.

Storage

Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made at least a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld, but it can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.

What can I serve with this cheese ball?

This cheese ball pairs well with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery, pretzel sticks, or even pita chips for dipping.

Irresistible Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball Recipe You’ll Love! Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 196 reviews

This irresistible Cheddar Ranch Cheese Ball is a perfect appetizer blend of creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and zesty ranch seasoning coated in crunchy nuts. Easy to prepare and great for parties, it pairs wonderfully with crackers and fresh veggies.

Author: Lila
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball

8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix (about 1 oz)
2 Green Onions, chopped

Coating

1/2 cup Walnuts or Pecans, chopped (or substitute with sunflower seeds)

Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until softened for easier mixing.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, and chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly using a spatula or an electric mixer on low speed until well combined.
Shape the Ball: Use your hands to form the mixture into a smooth, compact ball, ensuring it holds together well.
Coat the Cheese Ball: Spread the chopped walnuts or pecans on a large piece of plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the nuts, pressing gently to coat it evenly on all sides.
Chill: Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly with the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the ball firm up.
Serve: Remove the cheese ball from the fridge, unwrap it, and place on a serving platter. Serve with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or pretzel sticks for dipping.

Notes

For a nut-free option, substitute nuts with sunflower seeds or omit the coating entirely.
Make the cheese ball a day ahead to allow flavors to develop even more.
Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor or mild cheddar for a creamier taste.
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
Chilling is important to firm up the cheese ball for easier slicing and serving.

Keywords: Cheddar Cheese Ball, Ranch Cheese Ball, Party Appetizer, Cheese Ball Recipe, Easy Cheese Ball