Cream cheese, cheddar, crispy bacon, and crunchy pecans make this Cracked Out Cheese Ball recipe totally irresistible and easy to whip up.
You know how there’s always that recipe—the one that shows up at every family get-together? The one that everyone devours before the rest of the food hits the table? Well, for us, that’s this Cracked Out Cheese Ball Recipe. And yeah, it’s kind of embarrassing how often I make it now.
It all started a few years back. We had this last-minute holiday party (thanks, Mom!) and I was scrambling for something quick. I remembered seeing something on Pinterest about a cheese ball… and I thought, How hard can it be? Turns out, not hard at all. I threw together some cream cheese, cheddar, ranch mix, and bacon from breakfast (yes, that happened). Rolled it in pecans because that’s what Grandma always did with her cheese balls. And I swear, people acted like I’d reinvented the wheel. Even my brother, who usually only cares about wings and beer, was parked by the snack table, knife in hand, going to town on this thing.
Ever since? It’s been the thing I bring when I need to impress without really trying. And now? Well, it’s your turn.
Why You’ll Love This Cracked Out Cheese Ball Recipe?
First off, it’s stupid easy. Like, “I forgot we had guests coming” easy. It’s also crazy versatile. Whether you’re hosting fancy friends who drink wine with their pinkies up or the gang’s just coming over to watch the game, this cheese ball fits in like a charm.
- Minimal effort, max flavor: 10 minutes, no oven, no stress.
- Ranch + cheddar + bacon? If that combo doesn’t scream “party in your mouth,” I don’t know what does.
- Perfect make-ahead snack: It’s even better the next day when all those flavors have had time to cozy up together.
- Customizable: Want spicy? Nut-free? Fancy? There’s room for you in this recipe.
Ingredient Notes:
I’ve made this thing so many times I could do it in my sleep (and maybe I have once or twice). Here’s the scoop on what makes this Cracked Out Cheese Ball ridiculously good:
- Cream Cheese: Go for the full-fat stuff. It’s a cheese ball, not a kale salad. We’re here to live a little.
- Ranch Dressing Mix: This is the flavor bomb. Just dump it in—no one will know you didn’t make your own seasoning blend.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp is best. It cuts through all the creaminess and gives you that tangy, cheesy punch.
- Cooked Bacon: I’m talking real bacon. Crispy, salty, smoky. Bacon bits from a jar? Not today, friend.
- Chopped Pecans: Toast ’em if you can. That extra nuttiness? So worth it.
How To Make Cracked Out Cheese Ball?
Step 1: Mix It Up
Grab a big bowl. Toss in two packs of softened cream cheese and your packet of ranch dressing mix. If your arm’s feeling lazy, use a mixer. No judgment.
Step 2: Add the Good Stuff
Now’s the time to fold in your shredded cheddar and crispy bacon. Make sure it’s all mixed in evenly. You want a little bit of everything in every bite.
Step 3: Shape It (You Got This)
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Take that glorious mixture and shape it into a ball. Or two smaller balls. Honestly, you do you. Some people go for logs—hey, it’s cheese, it doesn’t care what shape it’s in.
Step 4: Roll That Beauty
Spread out your chopped pecans on a plate and roll the cheese ball around until it’s covered like it’s wearing a fancy coat. Press them in gently to make sure they stick.
Step 5: Chill (Both You and the Cheese Ball)
Wrap it up in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. Overnight is even better. I mean, who isn’t better after a good night’s rest?
Storage Options:
- Fridge: Wrapped up tight, it’ll stay good for up to 5 days. But I doubt it’ll last that long.
- Freezer: You can freeze it! Wrap it super well and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving and give it a pep talk before the big reveal.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Nut-Free: Allergies? No problem. Roll it in crushed pretzels or even more bacon. (Yep. More bacon.)
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne. Spicy ranch mix works, too.
- Different Cheeses: Smoked gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Veggie Lovers: Swap bacon for chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean vibe.
What to Serve with Cracked Out Cheese Ball?
You need vehicles to get this cheesy goodness to your mouth. Here’s what works:
- Crackers: Ritz, Triscuits, those fancy artisan ones. All fair game.
- Veggies: Carrots, celery, bell peppers. Feels healthy, right?
- Pretzels: Salty + cheesy = yes.
- Toasted Bread: Baguette slices if you’re going for “fancy party guest.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Oh, absolutely. Make it the day before and thank yourself later. It actually tastes better after it chills for a while.
How long can it sit out?
Two hours tops, especially if it’s warm out. After that, pop it back in the fridge. Cheese needs boundaries, you know?
Do I have to use pecans?
Nope! If you’re not a nut person, skip ’em. Or get creative—try crispy onions, everything bagel seasoning, or crumbled crackers.
And there you have it. My go-to Cracked Out Cheese Ball Recipe. It’s a little indulgent, a lot delicious, and guaranteed to be the thing people ask you for next time you show up with a dish in hand.
Try it out. And if you’ve got a twist on this recipe? Tell me! I’m always looking for an excuse to make another cheese ball.
Can’t wait to hear what you think!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Cracked Out Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 2 8-ounces packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 1-ounce package of ranch dressing mix
- 1 c shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ c cooked chopped bacon
- ⅔ c chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl take the cream cheese. Add the ranch dressing mix. Make sure to blend them
- Next, incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked, chopped bacon into the cream cheese mixture. Mix everything until all the ingredients are evenly spread throughout.
- Once you have achieved a combined mixture divide it into two portions. Shape each portion into a ball shape. Alternatively if you prefer you can combine the mixture into one cheese ball.
- Roll each cheese ball in the chopped pecans until they are completely coated with them.
- Finally, wrap both cheese balls in plastic wrap. Place them in the refrigerator to chill. Keep them refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
Notes
