Print

Creamy Ranch Cheese Ball Recipe with Bacon and Green Onions

creamy ranch cheese ball - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy creamy ranch cheese ball with crispy bacon and fresh green onions, perfect for parties and potlucks. This savory snack combines creamy, tangy, smoky, and fresh flavors that impress every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 1 packet (1 ounce or 28 grams) ranch seasoning mix
  • 3–4 stalks green onions, finely chopped
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy, either in a skillet over medium heat for about 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, or microwave on a paper towel-lined plate for 4-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels, cool, and crumble.
  2. Prepare the green onions: Rinse and finely chop 3-4 green onions, including both white and green parts. Set aside.
  3. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese and ½ cup sour cream. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add seasoning: Stir in 1 packet ranch seasoning mix, ½ teaspoon garlic powder (if using), and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  5. Fold in cheese, bacon, and onions: Add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Gently fold to combine.
  6. Shape the cheese ball: Lay out plastic wrap, spoon mixture onto center, and shape into a tight ball about 5 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  7. Garnish and serve: Unwrap cheese ball, place on serving plate, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for smooth texture. Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt. Chill cheese ball at least 1 hour for best slicing. If too soft after chilling, let sit at room temperature 10-15 minutes before serving. Plastic wrap helps shape the ball smoothly. Can microwave bacon as a quicker alternative. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for spice or swapping cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, ranch cheese ball, bacon cheese ball, party appetizer, easy snack, creamy cheese ball, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/creamy-ranch-cheese-ball-recipe-with-bacon-and-green-onions-easy-and-perfect-for-parties/