Cracked Out Cheese Ball

The Cracked Out Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory, and ultra-addictive appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, and holidays. Packed with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning, this crowd-pleasing snack is as easy to make as it is delicious. It pairs perfectly with crackers, veggies, or pretzels and can be made in advance for effortless entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: Bacon, cheddar, and ranch combine into an irresistibly savory bite.
• Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and no baking required.
• Perfect for Parties: Serve with a variety of dippers for an easy appetizer that feeds a crowd.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance and only gets better after chilling.
• Customizable: You can switch up the ingredients to suit your flavor preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese, softened
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked bacon, crumbled
• Green onions (optional)
• Chopped pecans or crushed crackers (for coating)
• Parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Mix the base: In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with ranch seasoning until smooth and combined.
2. Add mix-ins: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon crumbles, and chopped green onions (if using).
3. Shape the cheese ball: Using clean hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Coat the cheese ball: Once chilled, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans, crushed crackers, or your choice of coating until fully covered.
5. Serve: Place on a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley or extra bacon if desired. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Herb Blend: Mix in chopped dill or parsley for a fresh, herby flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Try mixing in pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
• Mini Cheese Balls: Roll into individual-sized balls and serve on toothpicks.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the uncoated cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before coating and serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable – this appetizer is served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese ball in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of pecans for the coating?

Crushed crackers, toasted almonds, crispy bacon bits, or fresh herbs all make great coatings.

Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?

Absolutely. Use your favorite homemade ranch mix in place of the store-bought packet.

Is there a low-fat version?

Yes, substitute low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon. The texture will be slightly softer.

How long can it sit out?

It can safely sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. After that, refrigerate any leftovers.

Can I make this into a cheese log instead?

Yes, shape into a log and roll in coating as directed.

What are good dipping options?

Crackers, pita chips, pretzels, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips are all great.

How do I get the cheese ball to firm up?

Make sure to chill it for at least 1 hour, and up to overnight if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and make either one large cheese ball or two smaller ones.

Can I serve this warm?

It’s best served chilled, but if you prefer a spreadable texture, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

The Cracked Out Cheese Ball is everything you want in a party appetizer—easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or a casual get-together, this cheesy, bacon-packed ball of goodness is the kind of recipe that becomes a go-to favorite. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it for every festive occasion.

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