Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

There is nothing quite like the perfect savory bite to anchor a gathering or satisfy a midday craving, and these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls deliver pure comfort in a golden, bite-sized package. The secret lies in the creamy richness of the cream cheese melding perfectly with the sharp Cheddar and savory sausage, resulting in a tender interior that truly melts in your mouth. This classic appetizer is reliably delicious and surprisingly simple to assemble, making it a go-to for any occasion.

For busy professionals and moms juggling schedules, knowing you have a crowd-pleasing snack ready to bake makes entertaining infinitely easier. I often mix up a double batch on Sunday afternoon, knowing we can enjoy them for quick breakfasts during the week or pull them straight from the freezer for last-minute guests. They are truly the definition of effortless entertaining.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is a staple in my kitchen because it checks every box for a busy home cook:

• Speed: Minimal prep time means they are ready for the oven fast.
• Flavor Power: The combination of sausage and sharp cheese is always a guaranteed hit.
• Make Ahead Magic: They freeze beautifully, saving you time later.
• Versatility: Perfect for holiday parties, brunch spreads, or even a hearty snack.

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Ingredients

The magic of these simple Cream Cheese Sausage Balls comes from just four core components working in perfect harmony to create that signature savory flavor and soft texture. It’s a simple formula that yields impressive results every single time.

Core Components:

• Breakfast Sausage (Uncooked): This provides the primary savory flavor and necessary fat content for moisture. I prefer the hot variety for a little kick, but mild works wonderfully too.
• Cream Cheese (Softened): This is the binder and the source of that incredible tenderness; it keeps the finished balls incredibly moist. Ensure it is fully softened for easy mixing.
• Bisquick Baking Mix: This acts as the necessary structure and leavening agent, helping the balls hold their shape while baking.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Shredded): Adds a necessary tang and depth of flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and cream cheese.

Substitutions and Tips:

For a flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture before rolling. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can substitute with 2 cups of all-purpose flour mixed with 1 tablespoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. For a dairy-free option, experiment with plant-based sausage and a good quality vegan cream cheese alternative, though texture may vary slightly. Exact measurements are found in the recipe card below.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To assemble your delicious batch of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls efficiently, you will need a few simple kitchen essentials:

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking Sheet: Necessary for uniform baking. Use a standard cookie sheet.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient ratios.

How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Making these savory party food bites is straightforward, allowing you more time to focus on your guests or relax after a long day. Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked sausage appetizers.

Preparation and Oven Setup

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 175 degrees Celsius. Line a sturdy baking sheet with parchment paper; this crucial step ensures easy removal later and prevents the sausage mixture from sticking to the pan.

Combining the Sausage Ball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, place your uncooked breakfast sausage, the softened cream cheese, the Bisquick baking mix, and the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese. Using clean hands is often the most effective method, though a stand mixer with a paddle attachment works well too. Mix everything together thoroughly until a uniform dough forms; you should not see any streaks of plain cream cheese or dry Bisquick remaining.

Forming and Placing the Appetizers

Take portions of the mixture and roll them gently between your palms to form uniform balls, aiming for about one inch in size. Place these formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking and slight spreading.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Bake the sausage appetizers for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. You are looking for them to be nicely golden brown on the exterior and fully cooked through in the center. Use a meat thermometer if you are concerned about food safety, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Serving Warm

Once baked, carefully remove the sheet from the oven. Allow them to cool for just a minute or two before transferring them to a serving platter. These are best enjoyed warm, but they remain delicious even as they cool down.

How to Store Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Storing leftovers of your wonderful Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is simple. For short-term storage, place cooled balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. If you have made a large batch, freezing is ideal. Place baked, cooled balls on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips for Success

Achieving the best texture and flavor in your sausage appetizers requires a few key details:

• Ensure the cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature; cold cheese will not incorporate properly.
• Do not overmix the dough once combined, as this can lead to tough, dense balls rather than tender ones.
• Use a consistent size when rolling; this guarantees that all your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls finish baking at the same time.
• If using parchment paper, you can skip greasing the pan entirely.

Serving Suggestions

These savory bites pair wonderfully with various accompaniments for any event:

• Offer a small bowl of maple syrup or honey mustard for dipping.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit skewers for a balanced brunch spread.
• For drinks, pair with sparkling cider or a light, crisp white wine.
• Arrange them attractively on a tiered platter for an elegant presentation.

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