Ranch Cheese Ball, Monster Ball, Buttermilk Ranch Dip Mix

I've given out this recipe out so many times and people keep asking for it again and again!  I think because it is so easy they don't believe that I'm sharing the true recipe.  Maybe they think I'll slip up and reveal some secret ingredient...but no, it really is that easy!  Super delicious too!

Ranch Cheese Ball

2 pkgs. Cream Cheese  -  can use less fat variety
3 Tblsp. Ranch Dip Mix  -  or 1 pkg.  (recipe follows)
1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded

Combine all ingredients thoroughly.  A mixer will make the cheese ball more silky and easier to spread but I've made this by hand and it does ok.  If using a mixer, mix on medium for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the bowl after 1 minute.  Scrape out onto a piece of plastic wrap and use the wrap to form a ball.  Chill.  Unwrap and there you go!

This cheese dip is good to just make and place in a container.  My kids and husband like it with crackers, bread or corn chips.  It's also very good on tortillas for a quick snack!  As always add in what you like...a little pepper or chopped pecans might be nice...

Turning your Ranch Cheese Ball into a Spider Ball

Spider Ball

one recipe of Ranch Cheese Ball
Chives, chopped
Coarse Black Pepper
Cheddar or cheese of your choice, chopped
baby sweet peppers, assorted colors
black olives, sliced
green olives, sliced

Eyeball each ingredient in order to cover each ball.  Divide your recipe into 3 balls.  After chilling, take each ball and roll one in the chives, to cover.  Roll one in the black pepper, to cover and roll the last in the cheese, to cover.  Choose the color of
the legs you would like and thinly slice eight pieces of the pepper and place into the cheese balls.  Place the olives for the eyes and insert a small piece of pepper in the center of the olive.

 I made this recipe for years simply using the Hidden Valley Ranch Powder and believe me I got raves...however, as some of you may know my daughter Sarah, of Saraheatsaustin.com is a purist.  She likes to use fresh and homemade ingredients and always encourages me to do the same.  To be honest I have to thank her.  Sometimes you forget how simple and satisfying it can be to make your own from scratch.  I've added my recipe for Ranch Dip Mix which you can make in bulk and store to use when needed.  

Buttermilk Ranch Dip Mix

3 Tbsp. dried parsley
1 1/2 Tbsp. sea salt
2 Tbsp. dried chives
1/2 Tbsp. dried oregano
1/2 Tbsp. dried tarragon
1 Tbsp. garlic powder
1 Tbsp. lemon pepper
2 Tbsp. buttermilk powder
4 Tbsp. dried milk powder

Mix all the ingredients and store in an airtight container.  As a general rule I use 3 Tbsp of the mix any time a recipe call for a packet of Hidden Valley.