Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

The tantalizing aroma of savory sausage mingling with rich, creamy cheese fills your kitchen as these golden, bite-sized Cream Cheese Sausage Balls emerge from the oven. These irresistible appetizers strike the perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior that makes them disappear from platters within minutes. A beloved Southern classic with a creamy twist, these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls elevate the traditional recipe to new heights of deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, game day party, or simply craving a comforting snack, these savory morsels never disappoint. You’ll learn how to create perfectly textured sausage cheese balls with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor that will have everyone asking for your recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls have earned their place as a crowd-pleasing favorite for good reason. Unlike traditional recipes that can turn out dry, the addition of cream cheese creates an incredibly moist, tender texture while enhancing the rich flavor profile. The contrast between the slightly crisp, golden exterior and the soft, savory interior delivers a truly satisfying bite experience.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its versatility and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, you can whip up an impressive appetizer in minimal time. The prep work is straightforward – just mix, form, and bake – making it perfect for busy hosts or last-minute gatherings.

These sausage cream cheese balls also offer wonderful make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the mixture in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. The nostalgic comfort food appeal combined with their elevated taste makes these savory bites universally beloved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

To make approximately 36 Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, you’ll need:

• 1 pound (450g) pork breakfast sausage, uncooked (regular or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 cups (240g) Bisquick baking mix (or similar biscuit mix)
• 1 cup (113g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)

The quality of sausage significantly impacts the final flavor, so choose a premium brand you enjoy. For the creamiest texture, use full-fat cream cheese rather than reduced-fat varieties. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly without the anti-caking agents found in packaged options. For a more personalized flavor profile, consider adjusting the seasonings or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Pro Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients Matter: For the smoothest, most consistent texture in your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, ensure your cream cheese is properly softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese will result in lumpy mixture and uneven distribution. Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or microwave in 10-second intervals until softened but not melted.

Mix in the Right Order: The sequence of combining ingredients dramatically affects texture. Always start by thoroughly mixing the sausage and softened cream cheese until well combined before incorporating the dry ingredients. This creates a uniform base that helps avoid overworking the mixture when adding the Bisquick and cheese. Overworking leads to tough, dense sausage balls rather than tender ones.

Uniform Size Ensures Even Cooking: Use a small cookie scoop (about 1½ tablespoons capacity) or tablespoon measure to portion your balls consistently. This ensures they’ll cook at the same rate, preventing some from overcooking while others remain undercooked in the center. Rolling them between your palms creates the perfect sphere, but avoid compressing them too firmly, as this can make them dense rather than tender.

Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Allow your cream cheese to soften completely to room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese and raw sausage. Using your hands (wearing food-safe gloves if preferred) or a sturdy wooden spoon, mix thoroughly until the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the sausage. The mixture should appear uniform with no large streaks of cream cheese remaining.

Step 3
Gradually add the Bisquick baking mix, about a half cup at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, which can make your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls tough.

Step 4
Using a tablespoon measure or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll between your palms to form balls approximately 1-inch in diameter. Place the formed balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1-inch apart to allow for even heat circulation.

Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are golden brown on the outside and the sausage is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). For even browning, rotate the baking sheets halfway through cooking time.

Step 6
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. This brief resting period helps the balls set up properly and prevents burning your guests’ mouths. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.

Variations

Italian-Style Sausage Balls: Transform your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls into a Mediterranean delight by swapping the breakfast sausage for Italian sausage (mild or hot). Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, and substitute mozzarella for the cheddar. These pair beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping, creating a bite-sized version of Italian meatballs that works perfectly for casual gatherings.

Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Option: For those following carbohydrate-restricted diets, replace the Bisquick with a mixture of 1 cup almond flour and ¼ cup coconut flour. Add 1 teaspoon of baking powder to maintain the proper texture. This substitution significantly reduces the carb content while preserving the beloved taste and texture of traditional sausage cheese balls, making them accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

Southwest Spicy Version: Add bold Southwestern flavors by incorporating 1 can of diced green chilies (drained), ½ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and replacing the cheddar with pepper jack cheese. These zesty Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are perfect served with avocado ranch or sour cream dipping sauce and make an exciting addition to taco night appetizers or game day spreads.

Storage and Serving

Your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can make them rubbery.

For longer storage, freeze fully cooled sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

These versatile appetizers shine when served as part of a spread. Create an elegant appetizer board by pairing them with a honey mustard dipping sauce, grape jelly glaze, or ranch dressing. For a hearty brunch option, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. They also make wonderful additions to holiday buffets or potluck gatherings, maintaining their texture and flavor at room temperature for up to two hours, making them ideal for grazing tables.

FAQs

Can I make the sausage ball mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before forming into balls for easier handling. Alternatively, form the balls and refrigerate them uncooked on a baking sheet for up to 24 hours before baking.

Why are my sausage balls too dry or crumbly?
The most common cause is using too much Bisquick relative to the wet ingredients. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened and well incorporated with the sausage before adding the dry ingredients. If your mixture seems too dry during preparation, try adding 1-2 tablespoons of milk or a touch more cream cheese.

Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead?
Absolutely! Leaner sausage varieties work well, though they may produce slightly less moist Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. When using leaner meats, you might want to add an extra ounce of cream cheese to maintain the desired texture.

What can I substitute for Bisquick if I don’t have any?
You can make your own biscuit mix by combining 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/3 cup cold butter (cut into the dry ingredients until crumbly). Use this mixture as a 1:1 replacement for Bisquick.

How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?
Properly cooked Cream Cheese Sausage Balls should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), appear golden brown on the outside, and no longer be pink inside when cut open. If you’re unsure, break one open to check for doneness before serving.

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