A bold, creamy, and savory appetizer, this Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball is my go-to party favorite. It’s packed with smoky meat, sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, and fresh green onions—all rolled into one irresistible bite. Coated in crunchy pecans or crushed crackers, this cheese ball has just the right mix of textures and flavors to impress any crowd. Whether it’s a game day spread or a holiday gathering, this recipe never fails to disappear fast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked and finely chopped smoked beef or turkey (about 6 slices)
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
1 cup chopped pecans or crushed crackers for coating
Assorted crackers, chips, or veggies for serving
Directions
I start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s smooth and fluffy.
Then, I mix in the ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, chopped smoked meat, green onions, and jalapeño if I want a bit of heat.
Once combined, I use a spatula or my hands to form the mixture into a ball.
On a plate, I spread out the pecans or crushed crackers and roll the cheese ball in it until fully coated.
I wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This helps it firm up and lets the flavors develop.
When ready to serve, I unwrap it and place it on a platter with my favorite dippers like crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the smoked beef for bacon bits or leftover grilled chicken.
For a spicy kick, I add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
If I want to go nut-free, I skip the pecans and use crushed gluten-free crackers or crispy onions.
Mixing in dried cranberries or chopped roasted red peppers adds a sweet and tangy twist.
Storage/Reheating
I store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 5 days. If I’ve already served some, I just cover the remaining portion in an airtight container. Since it’s best served chilled, I don’t reheat it, but I do let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make this cheese ball?
I usually make it up to 2 days in advance. The flavors only get better as it chills, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead of a party.
Can I freeze the cowboy cream cheese ball?
Yes, I can freeze it before adding the outer coating. I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze for up to a month, then thaw in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, I roll it in pecans or crackers before serving.
What kind of meat works best in this recipe?
Smoked beef, turkey, or even crumbled bacon works great. I use whatever I have on hand that adds a smoky or savory flavor.
Is this cheese ball gluten-free?
Yes, it can be. I make sure the ranch seasoning and crackers I use for coating and serving are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe without nuts?
Absolutely. I often use crushed crackers, pretzels, or even crushed corn chips instead of nuts for a nut-free option.
Conclusion
This Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball is a versatile, flavor-packed appetizer that I can throw together in no time. With its rich mix of creamy, smoky, crunchy, and savory elements, it always earns rave reviews. Whether I’m hosting a game day, a holiday party, or just need a quick snack for guests, this recipe never disappoints.
📖 Recipe:
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Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A bold, creamy, and savory appetizer, the Cowboy Cream Cheese Ball combines smoky meat, sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, and green onions into one flavorful bite. Coated in pecans or crushed crackers, it’s an easy, make-ahead favorite for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked and finely chopped smoked beef or turkey (about 6 slices)
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
1 cup chopped pecans or crushed crackers for coating
Assorted crackers, chips, or veggies for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, chopped smoked meat, green onions, and jalapeño (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball using a spatula or your hands.
- Spread the chopped pecans or crushed crackers on a plate and roll the cheese ball in it until fully coated.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Unwrap and serve with your choice of crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks.
Notes
Make it up to 2 days in advance for best flavor.
Swap smoked meat for bacon bits or grilled chicken for variation.
Use crushed gluten-free crackers or crispy onions for a nut-free option.
Add dried cranberries or roasted red peppers for a sweet and tangy twist.
Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of cheese ball
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
