These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect blend of meaty, cheesy goodness! Easy to whip up, they make a great snack or party appetizer everyone will love.
They are super fun to make, and I can’t resist sampling a few before they even hit the table! 😂 They are best served warm with a dipping sauce on the side—perfect for sharing (or not)!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for texture. For a lighter alternative, try Neufchâtel cheese, which has lower fat. If dairy isn’t an option, vegan cream cheese is available and works nicely as a substitute.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a delicious kick. If you’re short on sharp cheddar, any other cheese like medium cheddar, pepper jack for some heat, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor will work well.
All-Purpose Flour: While all-purpose flour is standard, you can substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free version. Just remember to adjust your baking powder slightly as alternative flours can vary in absorption.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Your Sausage Balls?
Achieving the right texture is crucial for these sausage balls. Make sure all ingredients are well combined but avoid overmixing to keep them tender.
- Always ensure your cream cheese is properly softened to mix easily with the sausage.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the balls gently. The mixture should be slightly sticky; it helps in binding the ingredients together.
- Bake until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. This ensures they are cooked through while maintaining a yummy softness inside.
How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sausage Balls:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 18-20 minutes to bake, bringing the total to around 30 minutes. Quick and easy to make, these sausage balls are perfect for a snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This way, your sausage balls will come off easily when they’re done baking!
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and breakfast sausage. Use a spoon or spatula to mix them together until they are well combined. This mixture should be creamy and smooth.
3. Add the Cheese and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add more flavor! To the sausage mixture, add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture will be somewhat sticky, which is perfect!
4. Form the Balls:
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them so they can bake evenly.
5. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The sausage balls will be golden brown and cooked through when ready, so keep an eye on them as they bake!
6. Add Extra Cheesy Goodness (Optional):
If you want to amp up the cheesiness, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage balls during the last few minutes of baking. They will melt beautifully!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These cream cheese sausage balls are best served warm. Enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or snack—everyone will love them!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, you can mix it up with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda for a different taste. Just be sure to use the same amount of cheese for the best results.
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still hold together nicely!
How to Store Leftover Sausage Balls
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Freeze These Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the sausage balls cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.