Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful appetizer or snack, combining savory sausage with creamy cheese for a mouthwatering treat.
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls have become a family favorite, perfect for parties or casual gatherings. The combination of cream cheese and sausage creates a rich, flavorful bite that everyone loves.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory and creamy flavor that satisfies every craving
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect finger food for parties and gatherings
The Perfect Appetizer
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are not just any appetizer; they are a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a holiday party, or a casual get-together, these savory bites will have your guests coming back for more. Their delicious blend of flavors and textures makes them an ideal finger food, allowing everyone to enjoy them easily while mingling.
What sets these sausage balls apart is the combination of cream cheese and cheddar, which adds a rich, creamy element that complements the hearty sausage. The balance of spices ensures that every bite is flavorful without being overly spicy, making it suitable for guests of all ages.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, you can whip up a batch of these tasty sausage balls in no time. The preparation involves minimal effort, making it perfect for those busy days when you want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Getting the kids involved in the cooking process can be a fun family activity. Allow them to help mix the ingredients or shape the balls, turning cooking into a memorable bonding experience. Plus, you’ll have a delicious snack to enjoy together afterward!
Customizing Your Sausage Balls
While this recipe is delicious as is, it also offers plenty of room for customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or add in other ingredients like chopped jalapeños or cooked bacon for extra flavor. This versatility means you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste while accommodating different dietary restrictions. The possibilities are endless, making these sausage balls a versatile staple for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Balls
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the Balls
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
These sausage balls can be served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. A tangy mustard sauce, creamy ranch dressing, or even a sweet and spicy dipping sauce can enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast. This allows guests to personalize their experience, ensuring that everyone finds something they love.
For an elegant touch, consider plating the sausage balls on a decorative platter with fresh herbs or sliced vegetables. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a healthy option for guests who may want something lighter alongside the rich sausage balls.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), storing them properly is essential to maintain their deliciousness. Allow the sausage balls to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is a breeze. Simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy exterior and delicious flavor, making them just as enjoyable as when they were first baked.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey or spicy sausage.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked balls. Just thaw and bake when ready to use.
→ What can I serve with these?
These sausage balls pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful appetizer or snack, combining savory sausage with creamy cheese for a mouthwatering treat.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 balls
What You'll Need
For the Sausage Balls
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 16g