Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are little bite-sized snacks packed with savory sausage and the creamy, tangy goodness of cream cheese. They have a nice, slightly crispy outside and a soft, flavorful inside, making them perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime you want something tasty and easy to grab.
I love making these sausage balls because they’re so simple to whip up, and they always disappear quickly at get-togethers. Using cream cheese keeps them moist and gives a wonderful richness that makes these different from your average sausage snacks. A little tip: chilling the mixture before baking helps them hold their shape better and creates a nice texture.
My favorite way to eat these is warm, fresh from the oven, maybe with a little mustard or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. They’re great for holidays, game days, or just when I need a cozy snack that feels like a treat without much fuss. Everyone always asks for the recipe once they try them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds most of the flavor and moisture. I like mild, but spicy sausage works great if you want a kick. You can also use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Cream Cheese: This keeps the sausage balls soft and moist. Softened cream cheese is easier to mix well. If you want a dairy-free choice, try a vegan cream cheese substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor and a slight tang. You can substitute with Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses if you prefer different taste notes.
Baking Mix (Bisquick): This acts as the binder, holding everything together. You can use a homemade baking mix or all-purpose flour combined with baking powder as a substitute.
How Do You Make Sausage Balls Hold Together Without Falling Apart?
Getting the right consistency is key. Follow these tips:
- Soften the cream cheese beforehand so it mixes smoothly with the sausage.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly by hand or spoon; make sure cheese and baking mix are evenly distributed.
- Form small, tight balls to help them hold shape during baking.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking to firm it up (optional but helpful).
- Bake at a moderate temperature (350°F) to cook the sausage through without drying out the outside.
These steps help your sausage balls stay juicy inside while getting a nice golden crust outside!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I like it because it gives plenty of space to combine all ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep your ingredients accurate for the best results.
- Baking sheet – a sturdy sheet makes baking even and cleanup simple.
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – helps form uniform-sized sausage balls quickly and neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage with a different flavor profile like spicy jalapeño or smoky chipotle for extra punch.
- Add chopped cooked bacon or shredded cooked chicken to make them heartier.
- Mix in diced jalapeños, green onions, or bell peppers for a veggie boost.
- Switch the cheese: try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses for varied flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – to mix all the ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Baking sheet – to bake the sausage balls evenly.
- Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray – to keep the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – to shape the sausage balls into uniform sizes quickly.
- Oven mitts – for safely handling the hot baking sheet.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use spicy breakfast sausage or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mix.
- Cheese Options: Swap sharp cheddar for Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavors.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh chopped green onions, chives, or rosemary for extra aroma and taste.
- Bacon Lovers: Fold in some cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky goodness.
- Veggie Twist: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie boost.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but be 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 cream cheese blend evenly and ensures the sausage cooks properly.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the sausage balls a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake fresh when ready. You can also freeze the shaped balls and bake them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to keep them juicy.
Can I Substitute Bisquick with Another Flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder as a substitute (about 1 1/2 cups flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder). This will help bind the sausage balls similarly to bisquick.
