Turkey Cheese Ball
Introducing the Turkey Cheese Ball, where culinary creativity combines with flavors. Picture a blend of cream cheese, freshly grated cheddar and a medley of delightful seasonings molded into a whimsical turkey shape that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Each bite offers a combination of creamy, crispy and savory elements making this dish more than something to eat. It's something to savor. Ideal for get-togethers it embodies the essence of gourmet enjoyment, on a plate!
3 Servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz 1 ½ blocks of cream cheese, softened
- ½ c sour cream
- 1½ c freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- A small corner from a cheddar cheese block
- 3 tbsp ranch seasoning powder – NOT ranch dip mix
- ½ tbsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tbsp garlic powder
- 8 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled (divided)
- 1 large pretzel rod
- 3 + large pretzel twists
- 5 + mini pretzels
- 2 candy eyes
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese with sour cream in a large bowl.
- Stir in ranch seasoning powder, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and 1/3 c of the crumbled bacon.
- Set aside 3 tbsp of the mixture. Using plastic wrap, shape the main mixture into a ball and the smaller portion into a smaller ball. Chill for 4 hours.
- After chilling, attach the smaller ball (turkey's head) to the larger ball using a pretzel rod. Add candy eyes and a cheddar cheese piece as the beak.
- Insert large pretzel twists into the back of the large ball for the turkey's tail, and place smaller twists in front of them.
- Coat the balls with remaining bacon crumbles.
- Serve cold, accompanied by pretzels and crackers.
Notes
To give this appetizer a gluten-free twist let's make a few simple adjustments! First and foremost make sure to use a ranch seasoning powder that is specifically labeled as gluten-free as some brands may contain hidden gluten. For the feathery appearance of our turkey opt for gluten-free pretzels that can be found at most health food or specialty stores. They will provide the crunch without any gluten. Lastly always remember to read labels to ensure there are no sources of gluten, in the other ingredients. By making these changes you can enjoy the creamy and savory experience of a Turkey Cheese Ball while keeping it gluten-friendly.