These cute mini bacon ranch cheeseballs are packed with flavor! They’re creamy, cheesy, and have crispy bits of bacon mixed in for a tasty surprise.
They make the perfect snack for parties or just for fun! I love serving them with crunchy crackers—it’s hard to have just one! Who could resist? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives a rich texture to the cheeseballs. You can use light cream cheese for a healthier option or even Neufchâtel cheese. Just remember to soften it for easy mixing!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: It adds a nice tang. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just know that this may change the taste a bit!
Bacon: Yes, please! Crispy bacon is essential for flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon can serve as a great substitute. Just ensure it’s crispy!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: The classic choice here! You can use homemade ranch seasoning for healthier control or a different seasoning blend if you’re feeling adventurous – garlic powder and onion powder work well!
Cheez-It Crackers: They’re perfect for that crunchy coating. If you want to skip processed snacks, crushed pretzels or homemade cheese crackers are tasty alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheeseballs Hold Their Shape?
One tricky part can be shaping your cheeseballs so they don’t fall apart. Here are some tips:
- Chill the mixed cheese before shaping. It makes the mixture firmer and helps you shape it more easily.
- Use a small cookie scoop for even-sized balls. This makes for consistent bites!
- Press the coating on firmly. This helps it stick to the cheeseball and keeps them intact.
- If any mixture sticks to your hands, wet them slightly with water before shaping – it helps!
Try to keep them chilled until serving. They taste best fresh and hold their shape better when cold!
Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (reserve about 1/4 cup for rolling)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed Cheez-It crackers or similar cheese crackers (for rolling)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to have these delicious cheeseballs ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix well until everything is nicely blended together. Make sure there are no lumps!
2. Add Bacon and Green Onions:
Next, stir in the crumbled bacon and the chopped green onions or chives if you chose to use them. This is where the mixture gets that yummy flavor! Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Put the mixing bowl with the cheese mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture will help it firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
4. Prepare the Coating:
While you’re waiting for the cheese mixture to chill, take a shallow plate or bowl and combine the crushed Cheez-It crackers and the reserved crumbled bacon. Mix them together evenly so each cheeseball will have a tasty coating!
5. Shape the Cheeseballs:
Once the cheese mixture is chilled, use a small spoon or a cookie scoop to form bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter) from the mixture. Try to make them as uniform as possible for even serving.
6. Roll in the Coating:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Take each cheeseball and roll it in the crushed cracker and bacon mixture, gently pressing it to make sure the coating sticks properly all around.
7. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the finished cheeseballs on a serving platter and insert toothpicks into each for easy picking. If you like, you can garnish with additional chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These delightful cheeseballs can be served chilled or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with crunchy crackers or sliced veggies, f or extra dipping options!
Enjoy the creamy ranch and cheesy bacon flavor in every bite! Everyone will love these little delights!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used without compromising too much on taste or texture, making it a healthier option.
How Can I Make These Cheeseballs Ahead of Time?
Great idea! You can prepare the cheeseballs one day in advance. Just roll them in the coating and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What Should I Serve with Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs?
These cheeseballs pair wonderfully with crackers, fresh veggie sticks like carrots and celery, or even some sliced baguette for dipping. They’re super versatile!
How Do I Store Leftover Cheeseballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving again for the best flavor!
