Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a classic appetizer that’s always a hit at any gathering. These little bites combine savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a touch of buttery goodness, all rolled into perfectly tasty balls. Their crispy outside and tender inside make them super satisfying every time.
I love making these because they’re so quick to put together and use just a handful of simple ingredients. The cream cheese really helps keep the sausage moist and adds a smooth texture that I think makes these stand out from your typical sausage snack. Plus, they smell amazing while baking, which always gets everyone’s attention in the kitchen!
My favorite way to serve these sausage balls is warm, right out of the oven, with a little dipping sauce like honey mustard or spicy ketchup. They’re great for game days, parties, or just an easy snack to enjoy anytime. I always find myself reaching for more than one because they’re just that good and comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: Breakfast sausage adds a nice flavor and fat that keeps the balls juicy. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option, but add a little olive oil to keep them moist.
Cream Cheese: This keeps the sausage balls soft inside. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. For a dairy-free version, try vegan cream cheese, but the taste will be a bit different.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch of flavor. You can use mild or medium cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a different twist.
Baking Mix (Bisquick) or Flour: Bisquick is great because it includes leavening and salt. If you use plain flour, consider adding baking powder and a pinch of salt for similar results.
How Do You Make Perfectly Shaped, Crispy Sausage Balls?
Getting sausage balls to hold together but stay tender is all about mixing and baking right.
- Mixing: Soften cream cheese well so it blends smoothly with sausage. Mix everything just until combined to avoid dense balls.
- Shaping: Use a small scoop or tablespoon to keep sizes even. Wet your hands a bit if sticky to roll them easily.
- Baking: Spread balls with space between them so heat surrounds each piece, helping them crisp nicely. Bake at 350°F for about 25–30 minutes until golden.
Let the balls cool a few minutes before serving so they firm up a bit but stay warm and tasty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I use it to combine all the ingredients easily and keep everything together.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – helpful for mixing the sausage, cream cheese, and cheese until well blended.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure out ingredients precisely for consistent results.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – makes it easy to form even, uniform balls quickly.
- Baking sheet – a rimmed sheet is best to hold the sausage balls while they bake.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy chorizo or Italian sausage for a different flavor punch that pairs well with salsa or marinara. Great for a twist on the classic.
- Add finely chopped jalapeños or bell peppers to give a fresh, crunchy texture and a little heat.
- Mix in shredded cooked bacon or chopped cooked ham for extra smoky, meaty flavor.
- Swap sharp cheddar with pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder or spicier taste depending on your mood.
How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick or all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 25 to 30 minutes to bake. You’ll have these tasty sausage balls ready in under 45 minutes, making them a quick appetizer or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the sausage balls don’t stick.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ground sausage. Use your hands or a mixer to blend them well until everything is mixed evenly.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper into the bowl. Mix until it forms a sticky but doable dough.
4. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Scoop about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls with your hands. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the sausage balls are golden brown on top and cooked through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the warm sausage balls for a pop of color. Serve them as a yummy appetizer or snack with your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the sausage before mixing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps the ingredients combine evenly and cook properly.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the sausage balls and freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Bisquick?
If you don’t have Bisquick, use all-purpose flour combined with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt per cup of flour. This will help maintain the right texture in the sausage balls.