Football Cheese Ball

Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened (2 blocks)

• 1/2 tsp garlic salt

• 1 tsp hot sauce

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 1 cup bacon, cooked & chopped (divided)

• 1/3 cup chopped pecans

• 2 slices provolone cheese (for laces + stripes)

Instructions

1. Mix the base: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, garlic salt, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the good stuff: Stir in the cheddar cheese, green onions, and half of the chopped bacon.

3. Chill to firm: Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, until firm enough to shape.

4. Shape the football: Unwrap and form into an oval. Pinch and taper the ends slightly to create a football shape.

5. Coat it: On a plate, combine the remaining bacon with the chopped pecans. Roll the cheese ball in the mixture until fully coated, pressing gently to help it stick.

6. Add the laces: Cut thin strips of provolone to create the football’s laces and side stripes. Place on top in a football pattern.

7. Chill + serve: Refrigerate until ready to serve. Pair with crackers, pretzels, chips, or veggie sticks.

Serving idea: Put it on a board with crackers + mini peppers + pretzels and let everyone “draft” their dipper. 😄