Savory Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball
Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Savory Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball recipe. Packed with creamy goodness and a crunchy bacon twist, this dish is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. With a blend of cream cheese, creamy Miracle Whip, and savory parmesan, each bite is bursting with flavor, complemented by the distinct taste of green onions. Serve it alongside your favorite crunchy crackers for a snack that everyone will love. This cheese ball not only satisfies your cravings but is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any event!
15
Servings
160
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream Cheese
16 ounces (softened)
Miracle Whip
1/2 cup (none)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 cup (none)
Crisp Bacon
10 slices (cooked and crumbled)
Green Onions
1/4 cup (diced)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and Miracle Whip until smooth and creamy.
2
Carefully fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced green onions until everything is evenly distributed.
3
Once combined, shape the mixture into a large cheese ball or divide it into two smaller portions.
4
Wrap the formed cheese ball(s) in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until firm.
5
Before serving, allow the cheese ball to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly, then serve with an assortment of your favorite crackers.
Nutrition Information
13g
Fat
2g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Savory Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball?
It is a creamy, flavorful appetizer made with cream cheese, Miracle Whip, parmesan, bacon, and green onions, perfect for parties and gatherings.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include 16 ounces of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of Miracle Whip, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan, 10 slices of crisp bacon, and 1/4 cup of diced green onions.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 15 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of this cheese ball?
Each serving contains approximately 160 calories.
How long does the cheese ball need to be refrigerated?
It should be refrigerated for at least 3-4 hours, or until firm, to allow the flavors to meld and the shape to set.
Can I substitute Miracle Whip with mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use mayonnaise, but Miracle Whip provides a specific tangy flavor that defines this particular recipe.
Is this bacon ranch cheese ball gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should check the labels on your Miracle Whip and bacon to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
What should I serve with the cheese ball?
It is best served with an assortment of your favorite crackers, pretzels, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
How much fat is in a single serving?
There are 13 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein does this appetizer provide?
Each serving contains 6 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
This recipe is low in carbs, with only 2 grams per serving.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, it is actually recommended to make it at least several hours or a day ahead of time to allow the flavors to fully develop.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will the cheese ball stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored properly, it will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the Savory Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and Miracle Whip may become grainy or separate upon thawing.
How do I soften cream cheese quickly?
You can leave it at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes or microwave it on low power for 15-20 seconds.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great lower-fat alternative that still provides a smoky flavor.
What is the best way to crumble the bacon?
Cook the bacon until it is very crisp, let it cool on a paper towel, and then finely chop or crumble it by hand.
Can I add nuts to the outside of the cheese ball?
Yes, rolling the finished ball in crushed pecans or walnuts is a popular variation that adds a nice crunch.
What is the best way to shape the cheese mixture?
Using plastic wrap to help mold the mixture into a ball prevents it from sticking to your hands and keeps the shape uniform.
Can I make smaller individual cheese balls?
Yes, you can divide the mixture into two smaller balls or even many bite-sized mini balls for easier serving.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
As written, it is not vegetarian because it contains bacon, but you can omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon substitute.
What if my cheese ball is too soft to shape?
If the mixture is too soft, chill it in the mixing bowl for 30 minutes before attempting to form it into a ball.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of green onions?
Yes, fresh chives or parsley are excellent alternatives if you do not have green onions on hand.
Should I serve it straight from the fridge?
It is best to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so it softens slightly for easier scooping.
Can I add extra spices to the mix?
Yes, adding a pinch of garlic powder or black pepper can enhance the savory profile even further.
Do I need an electric mixer?
While an electric mixer ensures a very smooth texture, you can mix it by hand with a sturdy spatula if the cream cheese is well-softened.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can use Neufchatel or low-fat cream cheese, though the final result may be slightly softer than the full-fat version.
How do I prevent the green onions from being too sharp?
Using only the green parts of the onion provides a milder flavor compared to the white bottoms.
Can I double the recipe for a large party?
Yes, this recipe doubles very easily; just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl to combine the ingredients.