Quite possibly one of the most fun appetizers to serve! Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball Bites are finger-lickin good! We often make a bunch of appetizers to serve for a meal and this one always makes the cut. This one, Bacon Jalapeno Poppers, Sausage Jalapeno Poppers, and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms are the most requested!
Cheese Balls
Who doesn’t love a cheese ball stuffed with every amazing flavor known to man? Not only do these happen to be a perfect size, but they have the most amazing flavor. Bacon, ranch seasoning, and of course cheese!
These cheese balls are more of a “cheese ball bite”, meaning that they are much smaller than the average cheese ball. You can easily pop one in your mouth or grab your favorite cracker. Try my Classic Cheese Ball, Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, and Shrimp Cheese Ball for more delicious appetizers!
What to Serve With Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball Bites
There is no wrong here, but my kids loved Ritz crackers best. Something about the salty bacon and cool and creamy cheeses paired with a buttery cracker was so delicious! We also enjoyed pretzel crackers, pretzels, and toasted bread (crostini). You could also make some parmesan crisps and serve the cheese ball bites on top!
Can I Make This into One Cheese Ball?
Yes! Instead of 16 bite-sized portions, just mold the cream cheese mixture into one giant ball. Cover with the bacon coating and chill until ready to serve.
How to Store Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball Bites
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These will last up to a week. However, the nuts may not be as crunchy the longer they are stored.
More Appetizers
Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball Bites
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (113 g) cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon (about half a packet) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ⅓ cup (16 g) fresh chives, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup (36 g) pecans, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning.
- Form the cheese mixture into 16 small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
- In a small bowl or on a plate, combine bacon, chives, and pecans.
- Roll the cheese balls in bacon, chive, pecan mixture.
- Serve. If not immediately serving, loosely cover with plastic wrap and put in the refrigerator. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Video
Did you make this recipe?
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NEVA,
The recipe calls for 1/2 oz ranch packet not 1 oz.
Could serve with a pretzel stick in each one, instead of toothpicks.
Hi, Donna! I work with iambaker and am happy to help with questions. Using a pretzel stick is a great idea! Have a wonderful day!
Is this keto friendly?
Made these small and a big one! So good!
Neva, I think you misread the recipe…it said 1/2 a packet of ranch mix. I think THAT is why it was so salty!
thats looks really good. please send me the website. thank you
Can u make this night before ?
Yes, of course.
Could I use bacon bits as a substitute for the bacon?
You can. I personally think those taste awful so wouldn’t want them served to me, but I may be in the minority. If your family loves them then you are good to go!
Are these Keto friendly?????
Do you have any suggestions for a substitution for pecans…we have a nut allergy in the fam and I can’t ever use any!
You can omit or use whatever nut you prefer. 🙂