These tasty sausage balls are made with juicy sausage and creamy cheese, all rolled into bite-sized pieces. They are perfect for snacking or sharing at parties!
Who can resist these cheesy, savory goodies? I always make a big batch since they disappear quickly. Just mix, shape, and bake—so simple and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can choose either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
Cream Cheese: Standard cream cheese adds a wonderful creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, a vegan cream cheese would be a good substitute.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. For a twist, try swapping it for pepper jack for an extra kick or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Biscuit Baking Mix: If you’re out of this mix, you can make your own using flour, baking powder, and salt. Just combine 1½ cups flour with about 2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt to achieve a similar texture.
How Do I Get the Perfect Shape for Sausage Balls?
Shaping the sausage balls can be tricky, but here’s how to do it easily! Using your hands, scoop a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball. If the mix is sticky, wet your hands slightly to help prevent sticking.
- Make them about 1 to 1½ inches for even cooking.
- Leave space on the baking sheet so they have room to expand.
- Don’t press them too tightly; a gentle shape ensures a light texture.
With these tips, your sausage balls will come out looking and tasting fantastic! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground breakfast sausage (choose mild or spicy based on your preference)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy dish. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a gathering or a snack any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your sausage balls. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground breakfast sausage and softened cream cheese. Use a mixing spoon or your hands to mix them together until they are well blended. This will create a creamy and flavorful base for your sausage balls.
3. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Next, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, garlic powder (if using), black pepper, and paprika (if desired) to the sausage mixture. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and forms a sticky dough-like consistency.
4. Shape the Balls:
Now comes the fun part! Using your hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and roll it into small balls about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between them for even cooking.
5. Bake the Sausage Balls:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the sausage balls to be cooked through and golden brown on the outside—just delightful!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or ranch dressing for an extra tasty treat!
Enjoy these creamy, cheesy, savory sausage balls as a perfect appetizer or snack! You’ll be the hit of the party with this simple and delicious recipe!
Can I Use Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese if you want a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still taste great!
How Do I Make These Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free sausage balls, simply use a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular biscuit baking mix. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, including the sausage and cheeses.
Can I Freeze Sausage Balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked sausage balls for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These?
These sausage balls pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha sauce. You can also serve them with marinara sauce for a tasty twist!
