Sausage balls with cream cheese are a savory, cheesy, and irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for parties, holidays, and game-day snacks. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and flavorful seasonings to create soft, tender, and flavorful bite-sized treats. Unlike traditional sausage balls, the addition of cream cheese keeps them extra moist and tender, ensuring they never turn out dry.
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Why These Sausage Balls Are the Best?
These sausage balls stand out because of their perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Extra Creamy & Moist – Unlike dry sausage balls, the cream cheese keeps them soft and tender.
- Packed with Flavor – The right blend of seasonings, cheese, and sausage ensures every bite is delicious.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these sausage balls come together quickly.
- Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for holiday parties, brunch, game-day snacks, or meal prepping.
- Customizable – Add spices, different cheeses, or even veggies to make them your own.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Sausage Balls
The key to making the best sausage balls with cream cheese is choosing high-quality ingredients that complement each other.
Choosing the Right Sausage
- Pork Sausage – Traditional breakfast sausage or spicy sausage works best for deep flavor.
- Chicken or Turkey Sausage – A leaner alternative that still provides plenty of flavor.
- Hot or Spicy Sausage – Adds a kick of heat for those who love bold flavors.
- Mild Sausage – A great option for a classic and balanced taste.
Best Cream Cheese for a Creamy Texture
- Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Provides the richest, creamiest texture.
- Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese – Works if you’re looking for a lighter option but may alter the texture slightly.
- Whipped Cream Cheese – Easier to mix but may not provide the same density as block cream cheese.
Additional Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend for a gooey, cheesy bite.
- Baking Mix (Bisquick or Flour) – Helps hold the sausage balls together and gives them a light, fluffy texture.
- Seasonings – Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper enhance the flavor.
- Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Step-by-Step Sausage Ball Recipe
Making sausage balls with cream cheese is quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a snack, or meal prepping, follow this simple step-by-step recipe for perfect results every time.
Classic Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (16 oz) pork sausage (mild, hot, or breakfast sausage)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the sausage and cream cheese in a large bowl until well combined.
- Add shredded cheese, baking mix, and seasonings, then mix until fully incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Try these delicious variations:
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Blend: Mix different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby Jack for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Swap the baking mix for almond flour or gluten-free baking mix.
- Keto-Friendly Version: Use almond flour and skip the baking mix entirely.
- Bacon & Sausage Combo: Add crumbled bacon for an extra smoky taste.
Best Dipping Sauces for Sausage Balls
While these sausage balls are delicious on their own, dipping sauces can take them to the next level. Here are some tasty options:
- Ranch Dressing – A classic, creamy dip that pairs perfectly with the cheesy sausage flavor.
- Honey Mustard – The perfect mix of sweet and tangy.
- BBQ Sauce – A smoky and slightly sweet option for extra richness.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo – For those who love a kick of heat.
- Cheese Sauce – Because you can never have too much cheese!
How to Store and Reheat Sausage Balls
Storing Leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Place cooled sausage balls in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but be careful not to overcook.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes for a crispy texture.
Can You Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes! Sausage balls are perfect for meal prep or make-ahead appetizers. Here’s how to prepare them in advance:
- Unbaked: Roll the sausage mixture into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Frozen: Freeze the unbaked sausage balls, then bake them straight from the freezer. Just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
- Pre-Baked: Bake sausage balls ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze and reheat when needed.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value of Sausage Balls
Sausage balls with cream cheese are more than just a delicious appetizer—they can also be a satisfying, protein-rich snack that fits into various dietary lifestyles. By choosing the right ingredients and making small adjustments, you can enjoy them as a low-carb, keto-friendly, or high-protein option.
Protein-Packed Snack Option
Since sausage and cheese are both high in protein, these sausage balls make a great snack for keeping you full and energized. Benefits include:
- Muscle Support: Protein helps build and repair muscles, making these a great post-workout snack.
- Keeps You Full Longer: The combination of protein and fat promotes satiety and helps reduce hunger cravings.
- Great for Meal Prep: They store well and can be quickly reheated for a nutritious snack.
A typical serving of three sausage balls contains approximately:
- 15g of protein
- 12g of fat
- 2-3g of carbohydrates (depending on the ingredients used)
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Adjustments
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, these sausage balls can easily be modified to fit your macros:
- Use Almond Flour: Replace the baking mix (Bisquick) with almond flour to reduce carbs.
- Choose a Low-Carb Sausage: Some store-bought sausages contain hidden sugars—opt for a low-carb or sugar-free version.
- Increase Healthy Fats: Add extra shredded cheese or mix in butter or heavy cream for more fat content.
Serving Suggestions for Parties and Holidays
Sausage balls are an excellent addition to any party, holiday gathering, or special occasion. Here are some creative serving ideas:
- As a Party Appetizer: Serve sausage balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Paired with Dipping Sauces: Arrange small bowls of ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for dipping.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Combine them with cheeses, crackers, nuts, and olives for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
- Breakfast or Brunch Option: Pair them with scrambled eggs, avocado, and fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
- Holiday Serving: Display sausage balls on a festive tray with decorative toothpicks for a fun, seasonal touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
While raw sausage is best for achieving the right texture and consistency, you can use pre-cooked sausage with a few adjustments:
- Chop or crumble the sausage finely to help it blend well with the cream cheese and other ingredients.
- Reduce the baking time slightly since the sausage is already cooked—around 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) should be enough.
- Expect a different texture, as raw sausage binds better with the other ingredients, resulting in a softer, more cohesive sausage ball.
What’s the best way to keep them warm for a party?
To keep sausage balls warm and fresh throughout a party, try these methods:
- Slow Cooker: Set it to the “warm” setting and place the sausage balls inside to keep them hot for hours.
- Oven on Low Heat: Keep them on a baking sheet at 200°F (93°C) and cover them with foil to retain moisture.
- Warming Tray or Chafing Dish: Ideal for buffet-style serving, these will keep them at a perfect serving temperature.
Can I freeze sausage balls?
Yes! Sausage balls freeze well, making them a great make-ahead option.
- Freezing Unbaked Sausage Balls:
- Roll the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Bake straight from frozen—just add 5-7 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Freezing Cooked Sausage Balls:
- Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
What are some gluten-free options?
If you’re avoiding gluten, you can easily make gluten-free sausage balls by swapping out the baking mix:
- Almond flour or coconut flour – Low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Gluten-free all-purpose baking mix – A direct replacement for traditional Bisquick.
- Crushed pork rinds – Adds a crunchy, flavorful twist with zero carbs.
How do I prevent sausage balls from being too dry?
Sausage balls can turn out dry if the ingredient ratio isn’t balanced. To keep them soft and moist:
- Use full-fat cream cheese for extra moisture.
- Avoid using too much baking mix—start with a little and add more if needed.
- Don’t overbake! Remove them from the oven as soon as they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Add a splash of milk (about 1-2 tablespoons) to the mixture if it feels too dry before rolling into balls.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is the classic choice, you can switch up the flavors with:
- Pepper Jack – Adds a little spice.
- Mozzarella – Makes them extra gooey and melty.
- Colby Jack – A milder, creamy alternative.
- Parmesan – Brings a rich, umami depth to the flavor.
- For those looking for a hearty breakfast or brunch option, pairing these sausage balls with a flaky and flavorful Sausage Quiche Recipe can create a satisfying meal.
- Since sausage pairs well with pasta, you can suggest trying a comforting, cheesy dish like Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe for a full meal idea.
- Readers interested in slow cooker recipes can explore the rich and creamy flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken Cream Cheese Recipe, which shares a similar creamy texture with sausage balls.
- For a gluten-free option, linking to Gluten-Free Meatballs can help those with dietary restrictions find an alternative that still delivers on flavor.
Conclusion
Sausage balls with cream cheese are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Their savory, cheesy flavor and soft, tender texture make them a crowd favorite at parties, holiday gatherings, and even as a quick breakfast option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, and the recipe is easily customizable to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you’re serving them as a snack, pairing them with a tasty dipping sauce, or incorporating them into a brunch spread, these sausage balls are always a hit. Plus, they store well, making them a great make-ahead option for busy schedules.