Bring this 3 Ingredient Cheese Ball Recipe to your next get together, game night, or appetizer party. It always tastes delicious and can be served with so many different things to dip in the easy cheese ball recipe.

More easy appetizers to try: Homemade Pizza Rolls, Slow Cooker Spinach Dip, and Ham Pinwheels.

Are you in search of a quick and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests without causing you any stress? Look no further! This 3 Ingredient Cheese Ball recipe is the perfect solution. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With just a few simple ingredients (three to be exact) and minimal prep time, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing cheese ball that will have everyone coming back for more of this delicious cheese ball.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this cheese ball apart is its simplicity and versatility. With only three ingredients required, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for those who aren’t confident in the kitchen. The combination of cream cheese and ranch dressing mix creates a creamy and flavorful base, while the chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Plus, the ability to customize the recipe to your liking makes it suitable for any occasion. Be sure to check out the variation section below!

Additionally, this cheese ball can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event or meal preparation. Simply chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient option for busy hosts and hostesses. Whether you’re entertaining guests at a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients:

Here are the items you need to crab at the grocery store to make a cream cheese ball to serve with your favorite crackers or other dipping options.

8 oz block of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 Ranch dressing mix packet
1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)

Directions:

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the ranch dressing mix. Stir until thoroughly combined, ensuring there are no hidden pockets of dry ingredients.
Lay a piece of plastic saran wrap on your work table. Place the walnuts in a single layer in the middle of the plastic wrap.
Place your ball of cheese mixture in a mound in the middle of the walnuts.
Lifting under the plastic wrap, press the walnuts into the cheese ball, shaping it as you go.
Once the cheese is thoroughly covered in walnuts, wrap the entire ball in the plastic wrap and tightly pack in the nuts.
Place the cheese ball in the fridge and chill for at least an hour or until ready to serve.
Serve with crackers and veggies of your choice.

What to Serve with a classic cheese ball recipe:

There are so many options of what to serve with this great recipe besides just a variety of crackers. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:

ritz crackers
club crackers
pita chips
tortilla chips
potato chips
carrots
celery sticks
cucumbers
bell peppers
naan bread
french bread cubes
sourdough bread
mozzarella sticks
cheese crisps
pretzels
bread sticks
bagel chips
bagels sliced up
toasts

Places to Enjoy This Recipe:

You can enjoy this homemade cheese ball at so many places or even just because you are craving a creamy ranch appetizer.

Parties and gatherings: Impress your guests with this flavorful and visually appealing appetizer at your next party or get-together.
Holiday Party: When the holidays roll around and you need an easy recipe for an appetizer or side dish, quickly prep this easy cheesy appetizer.
Picnics and potlucks: Pack this cheese ball along with some crackers and sliced vegetables for a delicious addition to any outdoor gathering.
Game nights: Elevate your game night snacks with this easy-to-make cheese ball that will keep everyone fueled up for hours of fun.
Game Day: This is a great addition to game day snacks to enjoy during the Superbowl, March Madness or any other game viewing party.
Bridal or Baby Showers: This recipe is perfect for these type of special occasions where you want to serve crowd favorites.

Variations:

Additions: Customize your cheese ball by incorporating additional ingredients such as green onions, chopped herbs, cooked bacon bits, or pre-shredded cheese of any flavor from pepper jack to monterey jack and all any in between.
Coatings: Experiment with different coatings for your cheese ball, such as a different type of nuts, chopped pretzels, dried cranberries, bread crumbs, or crushed crackers, to add texture and flavor. The ball could also be rolled in cheddar cheese or sliced almonds if you prefer.
Different Flavors: Swap out the ranch dressing mix for other seasoning blends or spices to create unique flavor combinations, such as Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or garlic and herb seasoning. You could also swap out the ranch seasoning for Fiesta Ranch seasoning to make a spicy cheese ball taste to this perfect appetizer.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

This cheese ball can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for advance preparation. Simply prepare the cheese ball as directed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill until ready to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply unwrap and serve with your favorite dippers.

Common Questions About the Recipe:

Here are some questions you might have about the recipe and answers to help you make it with the best results.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, feel free to use your preferred type of nut or even a combination of nuts to coat the cheese ball.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to serve. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

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3 Ingredient Cheese Ball

A classic and simple recipe for an easy 3 ingredient cheese ball for entertaining.

Prep Time5

Chill Time1

Total Time1 5

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: appetizers, cheese ball, party appetizer, Peppermint cream cheese frosting,, ranch dressing mix

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese softened
1 Ranch dressing mix packet
1 c chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the ranch dressing mix. Stir until thoroughly combined – scrape the sides and bottom often to ensure there are no hidden pockets of dry ingredients. Set aside.
Lay a piece of plastic wrap on your work table. Place the walnuts in a single layer in the middle of the plastic wrap.
Place your ball of cheese in a mound in the middle of the walnuts.
Lifting under the plastic wrap, press the walnuts into the cheese ball, shaping it as you go.
Once the cheese is thoroughly covered in walnuts, wrap the entire ball in the plastic wrap and tightly pack in the nuts.
Place the cheese ball in the fridge and chill for at least an hour or until ready to serve.
Serve with crackers and veggies of your choice.

Notes

Storage: Cheese ball can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This 3 Ingredient Cheese Ball recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer option. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe is sure to please. With its minimal ingredients, customizable flavors, and make-ahead convenience, it’s bound to become a staple in your favorite entertaining appetizers. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as it disappears before your eyes at your next gathering!

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