These Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs are little bites of joy! Made with cream cheese, cheddar, and crispy bacon, they’re packed with flavor and perfect for sharing.
Perfect for parties or just snacking while binge-watching your favorite show, these cheesy bites are always a hit. I love making extra to save for later—if they last that long! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the cheeseballs, giving them a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice zing. You can substitute it with medium cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This blend gives the balls their signature flavor. You can make your own using dried herbs or use any other dry dressing mix you like—Italian works well too.
Bacon: Nothing beats crispy bacon! If you’re in a rush, consider using pre-cooked bacon bits or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Buttery Crackers: Ritz crackers are perfect for that buttery crunch. If gluten-free, swap in gluten-free crackers or even use crushed nuts for a different texture.
How Do I Make My Cheeseballs Hold Their Shape?
To get your cheeseballs to hold together nicely, start with softened cream cheese. It makes mixing easier and helps the balls firm up when chilled.
- After mixing, make sure to refrigerate the cheeseballs for at least an hour. This step helps them firm up.
- When rolling, keep your hands slightly wet to prevent the cheese from sticking to your fingers.
- Coat them thoroughly in crushed crackers and bacon to add an outer layer that helps hold everything in!
Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 6 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
- Toothpicks or small skewers for serving
- Ranch dressing, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 1 hour for chilling. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that will have everyone asking for more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well until everything is mixed together smoothly. It’s going to be creamy and delicious!
2. Add Bacon and Crackers:
Now, fold in about half of the finely chopped bacon and the crushed crackers into the cheese mixture. Be sure to save the remaining bacon and crackers for coating those yummy cheeseballs!
3. Roll Into Balls:
Using a small spoon or a melon baller, scoop out small portions of the mixture. Roll each scoop in your hands to form bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. They don’t have to be perfect, a little rustic look adds character!
4. Coat the Cheeseballs:
Take each cheeseball and roll it in the remaining crushed crackers and bacon until they are fully coated. This gives them a nice crunch on the outside!
5. Assemble and Serve:
Place all your coated cheeseballs on a serving plate. Insert a toothpick or small skewer into each ball for easy picking. Easy, right?
6. Final Touches:
If you want to make them look even prettier, sprinkle some chopped fresh chives on top. They add a nice splash of color and flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Serve these cheesy bites with a bowl of ranch dressing for dipping. They are perfect for parties or as a delightful snack. Enjoy them warm or cold—either way, they are absolutely delicious!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use low-fat cream cheese to lighten up the recipe! The flavor will still be great, but the texture may be slightly different. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon substitute, try using cooked crumbled turkey bacon or even diced ham for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to get a savory essence without the meat.
How Should I Store Leftover Cheeseballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. For a quick snack, you can eat them cold, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheeseballs a day in advance. Just roll them up, coat them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld together even better!