Turkey Cheese Ball
Turkey Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory appetizer made with cream cheese, bacon, cheddar, Ranch seasoning, green onions, and walnuts. It is quick to prepare, easy to shape, and perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
Print
Pin
Servings: 16
Ingredients
- 8 oz bacon chopped, divided
- 1/4 c sour cream
- 16 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 1/2 c Mexican cheese blend shredded
- 1 1/4 c cheddar cheese shredded and divided
- 1/4 c green onions chopped and divided
- 1/2 c walnuts chopped and divided
- 2 to 3 tbsp Ranch seasoning or to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 1/4 tsp poppy seeds divided
Instructions
- Cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Once cooled, reserve one-quarter of the bacon for the coating.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine three-quarters of the cooked bacon, sour cream, cream cheese, Mexican cheese blend, 1 c of the cheddar cheese, 3 tbsp of the chopped green onions, 1/4 c of the walnuts, 2 to 3 tbsp Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1 tsp of the poppy seeds.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly with a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture is evenly combined and smooth.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the reserved bacon, remaining 1/4 c cheddar cheese, remaining 1 tbsp green onions, remaining 1/4 c walnuts, and remaining 1/4 tsp poppy seeds. Mix well.
- Spread the topping mixture onto a clean cutting board or flat surface.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula.
- Roll the cheese ball over the topping mixture, pressing gently as needed to ensure the coating adheres evenly to the surface.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten free, use a certified gluten-free Ranch seasoning blend and verify that the bacon, shredded cheeses, sour cream, and poppy seeds are labeled gluten free, since additives and processing methods can vary by brand. Serve the cheese ball with gluten-free crackers, vegetable sticks, or other certified gluten-free dippers. Always read packaging carefully if preparing this appetizer for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.