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Pumpkin-Shaped Ranch Bacon Cheese Ball Recipe for Halloween Veggie Platter

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This festive pumpkin-shaped ranch bacon cheese ball is a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead appetizer perfect for Halloween parties and fall gatherings. Packed with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, and green onions, it’s as delicious as it is adorable, and makes a stunning centerpiece for any veggie platter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped or crumbled (divided: half for mix, half for coating)
  • 2–3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons paprika or smoked paprika (for coating)
  • Bell pepper stem or pretzel rod (for decoration)
  • Baby carrots (for serving)
  • Cucumber slices (for serving)
  • Celery sticks (for serving)
  • Mini bell peppers, sliced (for serving)
  • Cherry tomatoes (for serving)
  • Radishes or snap peas (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until softened (5-10 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Mix with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until creamy and well combined.
  3. Fold in half of the chopped bacon (4 slices) and the sliced green onions. Mix gently.
  4. Spoon the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Gather the plastic around to form a rough ball, twisting the top and tucking under.
  5. Wrap 3-4 rubber bands or kitchen twine around the wrapped cheese ball to create pumpkin-like ridges. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, until firm.
  7. Remove from fridge, unwrap the plastic, and gently remove rubber bands or twine. Adjust ridges if needed.
  8. Roll the cheese ball in a mixture of the remaining bacon and paprika (and extra cheddar if desired) to coat the outside.
  9. Press a bell pepper stem or pretzel rod into the top to mimic a pumpkin stem.
  10. Place the cheese ball in the center of a large platter. Arrange baby carrots, cucumber slices, celery sticks, mini bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, and any other desired veggies around it.
  11. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for best texture. Serve with veggies, crackers, or pretzel sticks.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly cooked, crispy bacon. Chill the cheese ball thoroughly to maintain its shape. For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add extra green onions or roasted red peppers. The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance; roll in bacon and paprika just before serving. Serve with plenty of fresh veggies for dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, cheese ball, ranch, bacon, appetizer, party, fall, pumpkin, veggie platter, make-ahead, gluten-free, savory, snack

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/pumpkin-shaped-ranch-bacon-cheese-ball-recipe-for-halloween-veggie-platter/