Indulging in Cream Cheese Sausage Balls feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine biting into a golden-brown ball, with the creamy richness of cream cheese melding perfectly with savory sausage, all while your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to gather around. These delightful bites are not just food; they are memories waiting to be made.
Picture this: a family gathering, laughter echoing through the air, and the unmistakable sound of munching as everyone reaches for seconds (or thirds). Whether it’s game day or a cozy brunch, these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are bound to steal the show and fill your heart with joy, one bite at a time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy days
- Their mouthwatering flavor profile combines creamy and savory elements that will have you coming back for more
- The visual appeal is undeniable; golden brown and perfectly round, they look great on any platter
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they can be served as appetizers or snacks anytime
I still remember the first time I made Cream Cheese Sausage Balls for a holiday party. My friends devoured them while I stood by nervously, hoping they would like them. Spoiler alert: they did!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Breakfast Sausage: Choose a flavorful pork sausage; spicy or mild works beautifully depending on your taste preference. For more inspiration, check out this breakfast recipes recipe.
Cream Cheese: Let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing; it adds rich creaminess to each bite.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for more intense flavor; it melts beautifully within the sausage balls.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind everything together; don’t skip this ingredient for optimal texture.
Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that gives your balls that perfect fluffy texture!
Onion Powder: Adds depth of flavor without the hassle of chopping onions—total win!
Garlic Powder: Because garlic makes everything better; trust me on this one.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings go a long way in enhancing all those delicious flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Mix the Meat and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and breakfast sausage using your hands or a spatula until well blended and creamy.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in flour, baking powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined and resembles a thick dough.
Toss in Shredded Cheddar: Gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese until it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step enhances flavor and adds gooey goodness!
Scoop and Shape: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out small balls (about 1 inch) onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between them as they will expand slightly while baking.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing—it’s hard to resist peeking!
Now you’ve got yourself some heavenly Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! Serve them warm with toothpicks or alone—they’re simply irresistible any way you slice it! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful treat that combines savory flavors and a creamy texture
- Perfect for parties, they quickly disappear from the platter
- The aroma of baking sausage balls fills your kitchen with comfort, making it an inviting space for friends and family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the sausage, cream cheese, and shredded cheese until well combined. Form into balls and bake them at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. This method ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute different cheeses or add spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper. You can even mix in chopped green onions for added freshness. Customizing these sausage balls makes them uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cream cheese sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they stay deliciously moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing; this ensures a smoother batter
- Don’t skip the chilling step if you make ahead; it helps firm up the mixture for easier rolling
- Lastly, consider adding a touch of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor
The first time I made Cream Cheese Sausage Balls for a game day gathering, they vanished faster than I could blink! Friends still rave about that flavorful explosion—they even requested them at my last potluck!
FAQ
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, turkey sausage is a healthier alternative and works wonderfully in this recipe.
How do I know when the sausage balls are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside—about 20-25 minutes.
Can I freeze these cream cheese sausage balls?
Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer bag for later use.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Indulge in the comforting delight of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. These golden-brown bites combine savory sausage and rich cream cheese, creating an irresistible treat that will keep everyone coming back for more. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re a must-have at your next event!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese and breakfast sausage until creamy.
- Add flour, baking powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; combine until thick dough forms.
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Scoop out small balls (about 1 inch) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage ball (30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Customize your sausage balls by using different cheeses or adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
