Of course! Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a legendary, crowd-pleasing appetizer that are incredibly easy to make. They are the ultimate savory, cheesy, bite-sized treat, perfect for game day, holiday parties, or a simple snack.
The addition of cream cheese makes them exceptionally moist, tender, and flavorful compared to the classic version.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
This recipe is foolproof and delivers unbelievably delicious results every time.
Yield: About 3-4 dozen balls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 8-10 as an appetizer
Ingredients
· 1 lb (16 oz) ground breakfast sausage (use spicy for a kick, or mild)
· 8 oz block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· 1 ½ cups Bisquick or all-purpose baking mix
· 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives or green onion (optional, for color and flavor)
· ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
· ½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and baking mix. It’s easiest to start with a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to get these two ingredients incorporated.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and any optional add-ins (chives, garlic powder, pepper). Switch to using your hands to mix everything together until it is fully and evenly combined. Don’t be shy—this is the best way to ensure the cream cheese and sausage are perfectly distributed.
- Form the Balls: Scoop up about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a 1-inch ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, spacing the balls about an inch apart.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through, the outsides are golden brown, and the tops are firm to the touch.
- Serve: Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving, as the inside will be very hot. Serve warm!
Why This Recipe is a Winner: Pro Tips
· Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is non-negotiable for an easy mix. If it’s too cold, you’ll have lumps that won’t incorporate properly.
· Use Your Hands: A spoon or mixer won’t cut it for the final mixing stage. Clean hands are the best tool to evenly distribute the sausage and cheese without overworking the dough.
· Don’t Overbake: They are done when they are golden and firm. Overbaking can dry them out, though the cream cheese does a great job of preventing that.
· Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sausage ball mixture, roll them, and freeze them on the baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
· Dipping Sauces: These are fantastic on their own, but even better with dipping sauces like:
· Ranch Dressing
· Honey Mustard
· BBQ Sauce
· A spicy sriracha-mayo
Easy Variations
· Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for Pepper Jack (for heat), Gouda (for smokiness), or a Mexican blend.
· “Everything Bagel” Sausage Balls: Before baking, roll the balls in “Everything But the Bagel” seasoning.
· Pork Rind Version (Keto/Low-Carb): Replace the Bisquick with 1 ½ cups of crushed pork rinds and 1 tsp of baking powder for a keto-friendly version that is just as delicious.
Enjoy these incredibly addictive, creamy, and cheesy bites! They are always the first appetizer to disappear from any platter.