Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a favorite snack that combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a delicious, golden exterior. They’re perfect for a variety of occasions, from tailgating snacks to game day recipes, and even serve as the ideal party appetizers. Whether you’re looking for a moist sausage ball or a crunchy one, these are sure to impress. Plus, they are so easy to make that you’ll find yourself preparing them over and over again. Let’s dive into why these sausage balls with cream cheese are such a hit!
YOUR MOMMA’S SAUSAGE BALLS (BUT BETTER!)
Most people have a version of sausage balls they’ve enjoyed at family gatherings or parties. Maybe your mom or grandma made them as a special treat. Traditional sausage balls recipes are often made with just sausage, cheese, and baking mix. However, adding cream cheese to the mix gives these savory sausage balls a creamy, soft texture that makes them stand out. The cream cheese sausage balls take this comfort food classic and elevate it to something extra special. The rich, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
Ingredients Needed for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
The beauty of Bisquick sausage balls is that they use simple ingredients, yet they deliver big flavor. Let’s break down the essentials for making sausage balls with cream cheese:
For this easy sausage balls recipe, you will need:
- Sausage: Pork sausage works best, but feel free to go for hot sausage sausage balls if you want a spicy kick. You can also choose mild sausage if you’re looking for a more neutral flavor.
- Cream Cheese: This ingredient makes the sausage balls moist and gives them a delightful creaminess.
- Bisquick: The baking mix sausage balls rely on Bisquick for that light, fluffy texture. If you don’t have Bisquick, a homemade Bisquick substitute works just fine.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is the go-to choice for cheese-filled sausage balls. It melts beautifully and adds just the right amount of flavor.
Key Ingredients
The key to making soft sausage balls is to use high-quality ingredients. The sausage and cheese are the stars of the show, while the cream cheese helps bind everything together. If you prefer a cheddar cheese sausage balls recipe, don’t hesitate to use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. A combination of cream cheese and cheddar sausage balls will make your dish irresistible.
Optional Add-ins & Variations
While the classic version of cream cheese sausage balls is amazing, you can make them even better by adding your own personal touch. You can include herbs like parsley or chives to add a fresh note. For a spicier version, try adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for that hot sausage sausage balls flavor. If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, try making mini sausage balls with a melted cheese center—cheese-filled sausage balls at their finest!
How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls (Step-by-Step Guide)
Making cream cheese sausage balls is simple, and you don’t need a lot of time to prepare them. Here’s how to create the perfect sausage balls for tailgating or any occasion.
Preparation Tips
Before you start mixing, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps the dough come together more easily. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! Mixing the ingredients with your hands ensures that everything is well combined, and the texture is just right. Avoid overmixing, as that can lead to tough sausage balls.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, cream cheese, Bisquick, and shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re adding any spices or extras, now’s the time!
- Mix the ingredients together until they are fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each ball for even cooking.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving.
Now you have a plate full of baked sausage balls ready to be enjoyed.
Nutrition Information for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
A serving of cream cheese sausage balls is both satisfying and flavorful, but it’s also important to consider the nutritional content. Depending on how many you eat, the nutritional breakdown for each sausage ball can vary, but here’s an estimate:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 sausage ball) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-180 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 0g |
If you’re looking for a gluten-free sausage balls version, simply swap out the Bisquick for a gluten-free baking mix. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
What to Serve with Bisquick Sausage Balls
Pair your sausage and cheese appetizer with a variety of sides for a complete meal. You can serve them with a side of crispy veggies like celery or carrots, or perhaps a fresh dip. For the dip, something creamy like ranch dressing or a tangy mustard dip works wonders.
You can also serve them alongside a light salad or with a tangy sausage ball dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or BBQ sauce. The sausage ball dip options are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite.
Can You Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes, you absolutely can make these make-ahead sausage balls. Prepare the sausage ball mixture, roll them into balls, and place them on a baking sheet. You can either store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking or freeze them for longer storage. If freezing, simply bake them from frozen, adjusting the cooking time by a few minutes.
How to Store Cream Cheese Sausage Balls for Maximum Freshness
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely because these are so delicious), store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat sausage balls, simply place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage ball preparation and bake them whenever you need a quick snack. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember, freezer storage for sausage balls is a great way to enjoy them later without any fuss.
Easy Sausage Balls Recipe with Cream Cheese & Bisquick
This simple quick sausage ball recipe is perfect when you need something fast and tasty. The combination of cream cheese sausage balls with Bisquick makes these a go-to option for quick snacks, party snacks with sausage, or game day recipes. They can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as a delicious breakfast treat.
Why You’ll Love These Sausage Balls
What makes these sausage balls for tailgating so great? They are versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. The addition of cream cheese gives them a moist, tender texture that traditional sausage balls just can’t match. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a big game, or just making a quick snack, these cheddar cheese sausage balls will never disappoint.
How to Freeze and Bake Sausage Balls for Later
Freezing is a fantastic way to keep your sausage balls with a twist on hand for future use. Just roll them, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. When you’re ready to eat them, pop them in the oven from frozen and bake until golden brown. It’s an easy way to have sausage balls ready whenever you want them.
Other Cheeses and Flavor Combinations to Try
If you’re looking for something different, try swapping the cheddar for something like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even pepper jack. Each cheese will give your sausage ball recipe a unique flavor profile. You could also add some sautéed mushrooms or even bacon for a more decadent bite.
What to Pair with Sausage Balls for the Perfect Meal or Snack
Sausage balls are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with other items to create a full meal or snack spread. Pair them with a savory sausage balls casserole or serve them alongside a hearty soup for a satisfying meal. You can even make mini sausage balls for smaller bites that work perfectly for appetizers at any party.
FAQs
Q:Why put cream cheese in sausage balls?
A:Cream cheese makes sausage balls softer and adds richness to the flavor.
Q:What kind of cheese for sausage balls?
A:Cheddar cheese is most commonly used for sausage balls.
Q:How do you make a cheese ball with cream cheese?
A:Mix cream cheese with shredded cheese, seasonings, and any other ingredients you like, then roll into a ball and refrigerate.
Q:What goes well with sausage balls?
A:Sausage balls go well with dipping sauces like ranch, mustard, or honey mustard.
Q:How to soften cream cheese?
A:Leave it out at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
Q:What kind of cheese do you put in sausage?
A:Cheddar cheese is often added to sausage for extra flavor.
Q:Why is cream cheese used in cooking?
A:Cream cheese adds creaminess, richness, and a mild tang to dishes.
Q:How do they put cheese in sausages?
A:The cheese is mixed into the sausage meat before it’s stuffed into casings.
Q:How to make sausages tastier?
A:Add herbs, spices, garlic, or cheese to enhance the flavor of sausages.
Q:How to keep sausage balls round?
A:Roll the mixture tightly with your hands and use a spoon to measure consistent portions.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that cream cheese sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser, and once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why. Whether you’re looking for a quick sausage ball recipe or a make-ahead sausage ball that you can freeze for later, this recipe delivers. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual tailgating snacks to formal parties. Give this recipe a try and watch as they become a favorite in your home!
