Prepare to transform your appetizer game with the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will have everyone begging for your recipe! This Chicken Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball is not just another party snack - it's a flavor explosion that combines the irresistible trio of chicken, bacon, and ranch in a creamy, indulgent package. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or when you simply want to impress your guests with minimal effort and maximum taste, this cheese ball is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula until well combined and uniform in texture.
- Place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a compact ball.
- Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour to help it firm up and allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, roll the cheese ball in additional chopped green onions to create a decorative and flavorful outer coating.
- Serve chilled with crackers, vegetable sticks, or toasted bread for dipping.
- Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth, easy-to-mix consistency.
- For extra flavor, use crispy bacon and consider using both regular and green onions for a more complex taste profile.
- Let the cheese ball chill for at least an hour before serving - this helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle.
- For a more decorative presentation, roll the cheese ball in a mix of chopped green onions, extra bacon bits, or even some finely chopped herbs.
- If you're preparing this in advance, it can be made up to 2 days before your event, making it a stress-free appetizer option.
- Serve with a variety of dippers - from classic crackers to fresh vegetable sticks or even toasted baguette slices.
- For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg
