Mini Ranch Cheese Balls
These Mini Ranch Cheese Balls are the easiest party appetizer you'll make, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires no cooking and minimal fuss. They are the ultimate secret weapon for any host.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24-30 bite-sized balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened)
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups)
- Dry Ranch Dressing Mix (1 oz packet)
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) - optional
- Onion Powder (1/2 tsp) - optional
- Fresh Chives or Dill (1 tbsp, finely chopped) - optional
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts - for coating
- Real Bacon Bits - for coating
- Finely Chopped Fresh Parsley - for coating
- Paprika - for coating
Instructions
- Preparation: Soften the Cream Cheese. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This is the most critical step for a smooth, lump-free mixture that's easy to roll.
- Mixing: Combine the Flavors. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, dry ranch mix, and any optional flavor boosters. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
- Chilling: Firm Up the Mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is non-negotiable as it firms up the cheese mixture, making it much easier to handle and roll into perfect little spheres.
- Shaping: Roll Perfect Bite-Sized Balls. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the cheese mixture. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form compact, bite-sized balls.
- Coating: Add the Finishing Touch. Place your chosen coating(s) in small bowls. Roll each cheese ball in the coating until it's fully covered, gently pressing the coating to help it adhere.
Notes
Store finished cheese balls in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/mini-ranch-cheese-balls/