Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage with the creamy texture of cream cheese, perfect for any gathering.
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a family favorite, often requested at parties and holiday gatherings. The combination of flavors is irresistible, making them a staple in our home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory and creamy flavor profile that satisfies every palate
- Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use
Perfect for Any Gathering
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the quintessential appetizer for any social gathering. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a family reunion, or a casual get-together, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests. Their savory and creamy flavor profile makes them a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Additionally, they are incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and family rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
The versatility of these sausage balls means they can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for buffet-style events. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or honey mustard, to elevate the flavor experience. No matter the occasion, these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are bound to be a hit!
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best things about Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is their adaptability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch in advance and freeze them for later use. Simply follow the recipe, then freeze the unbaked balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
This makes these sausage balls an excellent option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. With just a little planning, you can have a delicious appetizer or snack ready to go at a moment's notice. Plus, they reheat beautifully, maintaining their flavor and texture, so you won't sacrifice quality for convenience.
Customization Options
Another great aspect of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is their versatility in customization. While the classic recipe is delicious as is, you can easily adapt it to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences. Consider adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or incorporate different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to change up the flavor profile.
For a healthier twist, try using turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausage. This not only reduces the fat content but also adds a different flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese. Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices, such as chopped green onions or a dash of cayenne pepper, to make these sausage balls uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Sausage Balls
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Form Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Serve these sausage balls with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain!
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to three days. When reheating, simply place them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, which will help preserve their texture.
If you've frozen some for later, it's best to consume them within three months for optimal taste and quality. Always ensure they are fully cooked before freezing. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor and moist texture as when they were first baked.
Pairing Suggestions
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic touch, serve them alongside chilled beer or a refreshing glass of white wine. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling lemonade or iced tea, which will complement the savory flavors beautifully.
In terms of side dishes, a fresh vegetable platter or a light salad can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the sausage balls. Adding a tangy dipping sauce can also enhance the overall flavor experience, making your appetizer spread complete.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with sausage balls?
They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage with the creamy texture of cream cheese, perfect for any gathering.
Created by: Noah
Recipe Type: Cozy Meal Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 balls
What You'll Need
For the Sausage Balls
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g