Football-Shaped Cheese Ball Recipe

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This festive cheese ball is the ultimate game-day centerpiece. Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and shaped like a football, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Here’s how to create this show-stopping appetizer:

Ingredients

• Base Ingredients:
  • 16 ounces (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
  • ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional)
• For the Coating:
  • ½ cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work great)
  • OR ½ cup crumbled bacon bits (if not added to the mix)
• For Decoration:
  • 2 ounces cream cheese (for the laces)
  • Thin strips of cheese, like mozzarella or string cheese, for easier “laces”
• For Serving:
  • Crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggie sticks

Instructions | How to Make Your Football Cheeseball

1. Prepare the Cheese Ball Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning mix, and bacon (if using) until well combined. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother consistency.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or paprika.
2. Shape into a Football:
   • Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use your hands (with the plastic wrap as a barrier) to mold it into a football shape. (This is probably the hardest part if you are a perfectionist!)
   • Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This helps the cheese ball hold its shape.
3. Coat the Cheese Ball:
   • Once firm, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving platter.
   • Roll or press the surface gently into the chopped nuts or bacon bits until the entire cheese ball is evenly coated.
4. Add the Laces:
   • Use a piping bag (or a plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off) to pipe cream cheese “laces” onto the top of the football, mimicking the stitching of a real football.
   • If you don’t have the patience to do the cream cheese, you could just lay thin strips of mozzarella or string cheese to create the laces. The end result is almost as good!
5. Serve:
   • Surround the cheese ball with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

Tips for Success

• Make it Ahead: Prepare the cheese ball the night before to save time and let the flavors meld together.
• Customize the Flavor: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier version or add chopped green onions for extra zest.
• Keep it Cold: Serve on a chilled platter or refrigerate until just before serving to maintain its shape.

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