Save to Pinterest A creamy, tangy cheese ball packed with ranch flavor, perfect for parties and make-ahead entertaining. Freezes beautifully for stress-free snacking.
This cheese ball has become my go-to appetizer for gatherings. Everyone always asks for the recipe, and I love how simple it is to whip up ahead of time.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: 16 oz (450 g), softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), shredded
- Dry ranch seasoning mix: 1 oz (28 g), about 3 Tbsp, use gluten-free if needed
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ⅛ tsp
- Green onions: ¼ cup (25 g), finely chopped
- Fresh parsley: ¼ cup (30 g), finely chopped
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: 1 cup (100 g), toasted
- Fresh chives: ¼ cup (30 g), chopped, optional for rolling
Instructions
- Mix the base:
- Combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Fold in mix-ins:
- Stir in green onions and parsley until evenly distributed.
- Shape:
- Transfer the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a ball.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Coat:
- Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in a mixture of chopped pecans (and chives, if using) to coat evenly.
- Serve or freeze:
- Serve immediately, or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping roll the cheese ball in the nuts before serving. It's always a fun addition to our family movie night spread.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, rubber spatula or wooden spoon, plastic wrap, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar cheese). Contains tree nuts (pecans, walnuts) if used. May contain gluten if using a non-GF ranch mix. Always check all packaged ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 180, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 3 g, Protein 6 g
Save to Pinterest This crowd-pleasing cheese ball is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Make it ahead for low-stress snacking at any get-together!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
Prepare the mixture and shape it, then chill for at least an hour or freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight before serving.
- → Can I use other nuts for rolling?
Yes, toasted walnuts, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds work well for different flavors or nut-free options.
- → What are good pairings for serving?
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a balanced appetizer.
- → How do I keep the cheese ball firm?
Chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to help it set and hold its shape when rolled.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the cheese ball?
Adding cooked, crumbled bacon enhances the savory depth and provides a smoky note.