Bacon and Cheddar Cheese Ball Recipe by Ree Drummond from Pioneer Woman

Ingredients

• 8 slices bacon
• 8 oz. cream cheese, cut into small pieces
• 8 oz. white cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
• 2 Tbsp. sour cream
• 1 Tbsp. ranch seasoning (half of a 1-oz. packet)
• 5 scallions, white parts finely chopped and green parts sliced
• Cooking spray
• Crackers, for serving

Directions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
2. Blend the cheese mixture: In a food processor, combine cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, ranch seasoning, scallion whites, and 2 slices of cooked bacon. Process until smooth and well combined, about 30 seconds.
3. Prepare the topping: Chop the remaining 6 slices of bacon and mix with the scallion greens on a plate. Using a rubber spatula, scoop the cheese mixture onto the plate.
4. Shape the cheese ball: Coat your hands lightly with cooking spray and shape the cheese mixture into a ball. Roll and press the ball into the bacon-scallion mixture until evenly coated.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours.
6. Serve: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. Serve with crackers.