This recipe mixes cream cheese, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and bacon. You roll the mix into small balls and chill them. Kids and adults like these. They stay good on a snack table and travel well.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs are quick and full of flavor. They make a good party snack or game day bite. You can finish them in under an hour. If you like simple bacon snacks, try a warm side like Bacon Brussels Sprouts for more bacon ideas.
How to make Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Ingredients :
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), chopped
- Crackers or vegetables for serving
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until well blended.
- Fold in the chopped bacon and fresh herbs.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the cheeseballs on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Serve the cheeseballs with crackers or veggies.
Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Quick and flavorful Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs make an excellent party snack or game day bite.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), chopped
- Crackers or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until well blended.
- Fold in the chopped bacon and fresh herbs.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the cheeseballs on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Serve the cheeseballs with crackers or veggies.
Notes
Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing. Chop bacon small so each ball has bits of bacon. Use a cookie scoop to make even balls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheeseball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
How to serve Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Place cheeseballs on a platter with crackers and cut vegetables. Offer toothpicks so guests can pick them up. They pair well with hearty sides like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage for a simple buffet.
How to store Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They last 3 to 4 days cold. Do not leave them out for more than two hours at room temperature. You can freeze the cheeseballs on a tray first, then move to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips to make Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chop bacon small so each ball has bits of bacon.
- Use a cookie scoop to make even balls.
- For a sweet end, serve mini desserts like Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes after the cheeseballs.
Variations
- Add a little hot sauce to the mix for spice.
- Roll balls in chopped nuts, extra herbs, or more bacon for texture.
- Use flavored cream cheese (like garlic and herb) for different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes. The texture will be a bit softer. Chill longer to firm them up.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Make them up to 3 days ahead and keep in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze as noted.
Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes. Use chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian option.
Q: How big should the balls be?
A: About 1 inch in diameter is best for single bites.
Q: Can I use bottled ranch dressing instead of dry mix?
A: You can, but reduce any extra liquid. Drain or use less dressing so the mix stays firm.
Conclusion
Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs are easy, tasty, and fast to make. They work well for parties and quick snacks. Follow the simple steps to mix, shape, and chill. Enjoy them with crackers or veggies.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
