Ranch and Bacon Cheese Ball

Photo: iStock/ALLEKO

4 of 5
The Cheese Balled

It's hard to resist the retro appetizer spread that is a cheese ball—it's festive, delicious and, as this recipe demonstrates, quite versatile. It's from Dena Rayess' new Cheese Balls, and includes cream cheese and shredded smoked Gouda, along with ranch dressing, which helps the ball keep its shape and adds an herby zing. The pièce de résistance: a coating of chopped bacon and chopped fresh chives.

Get the recipe: Ranch and Bacon Cheese Ball