Name: Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe: Savory and Golden
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground pork sausage; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 1/4 cups baking mix (e.g., Bisquick); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Optional: Parsley (green onions); Suggested Pairings: Ranch dip (iced tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a classic, savory appetizer, perfect for party spreads, game-day snacks, or holiday gatherings. These golden, bite-sized balls, packed with spicy sausage, tangy cream cheese, and sharp cheddar, deliver a rich, flavorful punch in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic platter, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions, these Sausage Balls offer a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a quick, crowd-pleasing dish that brings bold, comforting flavors to any table.

Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/4 cups baking mix (e.g., Bisquick)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for extra heat)

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped parsley or green onions
Suggested Accompaniments: Ranch dip, mustard, or barbecue sauce
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, light beer
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, cookie scoop, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix with hands or a sturdy spoon until fully combined. Taste a small pinch of the mixture (raw sausage is safe in small amounts for tasting) and adjust the seasoning with an additional pinch of pepper or garlic powder for a balanced flavor.
Form Balls: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 32 balls). Place on the prepared baking sheet, 1 inch apart.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic platter, garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve warm with ranch dip, mustard, barbecue sauce, and iced tea or light beer.

Tips for Better Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing; microwave for 15 seconds if needed.
Taste the mixture before forming balls to balance savory and spicy flavors, as sausage brands vary.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform balls and even baking.
Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and tender.
Use a white ceramic platter for a vibrant presentation highlighting the golden balls and colorful garnishes.
Make ahead: Form balls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking; or freeze unbaked balls for up to 1 month, thaw in the fridge before baking.
Bake until golden for a crispy exterior; check doneness with a thermometer if unsure.
Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic platter with bright parsley or green onions for a festive, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Replace baking mix with gluten-free baking mix; ensure sausage is gluten-free.
Vegan Sausage Balls: Use vegan sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar; replace baking mix with a vegan alternative.
Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
Cheesy Sausage Balls: Increase cheddar to 2 1/2 cups or add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
Herb Sausage Balls: Add 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley to the mixture.
Breakfast Sausage Balls: Use breakfast sausage and add 1/2 tsp sage for a breakfast flavor.
Low-Carb Sausage Balls: Replace baking mix with 1 cup almond flour and 1 tsp baking powder.
Bacon Sausage Balls: Add 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Freeze baked balls for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Serve warm for the best flavor; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours due to the meat and dairy.
Use leftovers in breakfast sandwiches or crumbled over salads.
Pair with dipping sauces or iced tea to complement the rich, savory flavor.
Presented on a white ceramic platter with vibrant garnishes for a festive, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (4 balls each):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 700mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 14g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 15% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in fat and sodium; try the low-carb version. Pair with veggies for balance.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Sausage Balls recipe offers a savory, golden appetizer, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The cheesy, spicy bites delight every taste. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its bold, versatile appeal.