introduction
These Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs are small, tasty, and quick to make. They work well for a party or snack. They mix cream cheese, cheddar, ranch, and bacon for a rich flavor. They pair nicely with a warm side like a bacon mushroom cabbage bake for a full spread.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want an easy, crowd-pleasing snack. The cheeseballs take little time and need no baking. They are creamy, salty, and bright from green onions and parsley. If you like rich party dips, try something similar like a cheesy sausage bacon baked dip for variety.
how to make Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Start with soft cream cheese so the mix is smooth. Blend the ranch seasoning into the cream cheese and cheddar well. Fold in the bacon, parsley, and green onions by hand so they stay chunky. Shape into small balls, then chill so they hold their form. For another creamy side idea, see this creamy baked cabbage with crispy bacon.
Ingredients :
8 oz cream cheese, softened, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 packet ranch seasoning, 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, 1/2 cup chopped green onions, crackers or veggies for serving
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and ranch seasoning until well blended.
- Fold in crumbled bacon, parsley, and green onions.
- Form the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Roll the cheese balls in additional crumbled bacon if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve with crackers or fresh veggies.
how to serve Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Serve chilled on a platter with crackers or cut vegetables. They work well on a snack board with pickles, olives, and sliced meats. You can also pair them with a warm seafood or bacon dish like creamy cajun shrimp with mushrooms, spinach and turkey bacon for a hearty table.
how to store Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Store the cheeseballs in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for 3 to 4 days. Do not leave them out at room temperature more than two hours. For longer storage, you can freeze the formed balls on a tray, then move to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
- Use room-temperature cream cheese so the mix is smooth and easy to form.
- Chop bacon small so it mixes and sticks well.
- Chill the balls well if you want clean shapes and easy handling.
- Taste the mix before forming and add a pinch more ranch or salt if needed.
- Use a small cookie scoop for even sizes.
variation (if any)
- Make them spicy: add a small amount of hot sauce or chopped jalapeño.
- Use different cheeses: swap cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda.
- Make herb-only: skip bacon and add extra herbs for a vegetarian option.
- Make larger cheese balls for a centerpiece by scaling ingredients up.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Make them and chill up to a day before serving for best taste.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon?
A: Yes. Cook and crumble turkey bacon the same way.
Q: Are these freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze formed balls on a tray, then store in a bag for up to a month.
Q: Can I make them without ranch seasoning?
A: Yes. Use garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill as a simple substitute.
Conclusion
For a full recipe page with photos and extra tips, check the original Mini Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball Recipe.
Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and ranch seasoning until well blended.
- Fold in crumbled bacon, parsley, and green onions.
- Form the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Roll the cheese balls in additional crumbled bacon if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.