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
