These sausage balls are the perfect mix of tasty sausage and creamy cheese, making them super yummy! They’re great for parties or just a snack anytime.
When I make these, I can’t help but eat them straight from the oven; they vanish fast! Pairing them with some dipping sauce makes them even more fun. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage can work too.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the sausage balls their creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cream cheese alternative for the same consistency.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to substitute it with medium cheddar or even pepper jack for a little heat!
Biscuit Baking Mix: A classic choice is Bisquick, but if you don’t have that, you can use all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder at a 1:1 ratio.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These are optional, but they add great flavor! If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic and chopped onion instead.
How Do I Ensure My Sausage Balls Stay Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your sausage balls moist is all about mixing the ingredients just right. Here are some tips:
- Always use softened cream cheese, making it easier to blend smoothly with the sausage.
- Avoid over-mixing once you add the biscuit mix. This keeps them light and fluffy.
- Check for doneness by cutting one ball open. It should be cooked through but still moist inside.
- Let them cool slightly after baking; they continue to cook a little and will firm up nicely.
Follow these tips for delicious, moist, and flavorful sausage balls that everyone will love! Enjoy your cookout or party with this simple recipe!
How to Make Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 45-50 minutes before these delicious sausage balls are ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s a good idea to prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese and Sausage:
In a large mixing bowl, scoop your softened cream cheese and add the breakfast sausage. Use a fork or your hands to blend these two ingredients together until they’re fully combined and creamy. This step creates a delicious base!
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring in the fun stuff! Add the shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to your bowl. Stir everything together until it forms a cohesive dough-like mixture. Make sure it looks well-mixed but try not to overdo it—just enough to see that all ingredients are combined!
4. Shape the Sausage Balls:
With clean hands, scoop out about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them so they cook evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. You’ll love the smell wafting through your kitchen!
6. Garnish and Cool:
When they’re done, carefully take them out of the oven and let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over them to add a lovely touch and a hint of color!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve the sausage balls warm, and feel free to offer some yummy dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mustard for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious snack!
These sausage balls are sure to be a hit at your gatherings or as a cozy homemade treat. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! If you have frozen sausage, just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before mixing it with the cream cheese. This will help ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free baking mix instead of traditional biscuit baking mix. Just make sure to check the labels on your ingredients for gluten-free certifications.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Extra Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by mixing in ingredients like diced jalapeños for heat, crumbled bacon for added crunch, or different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist!
