Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Highlighted under: Easy Plates
Deliciously savory and perfectly cheesy, Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate party appetizer or game-day snack.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a classic comfort food that combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the savory flavor of sausage. Perfectly seasoned and easy to make, these bite-sized treats are ideal for any gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavor with a creamy texture
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- Perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces
The Perfect Party Treat
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are not just any appetizer; they are the life of the party! Their rich, savory flavor combined with the creamy texture of cream cheese makes them irresistible. Whether you're hosting a birthday bash, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, these sausage balls will quickly become the star of your appetizer spread. Plus, their bite-sized nature means guests can easily pop them in their mouths while mingling.
One of the best aspects of these sausage balls is their versatility. You can customize them by adding different spices or cheeses to suit your taste. Try incorporating jalapeños for a spicy kick or using pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of flavor. No matter how you adjust the recipe, they are sure to impress your friends and family.
Easy Preparation for Any Occasion
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare delicious snacks can be a challenge. Fortunately, Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a tray of these delectable bites ready for your guests in no time. This makes them ideal for spontaneous gatherings or planned events alike.
The simplicity of this recipe doesn't compromise on flavor or quality. You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes them a fantastic option for busy hosts who want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. Just pop them in the oven when your guests arrive, and the delightful aroma will draw everyone in.
Dipping Delights
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is the opportunity for creative dipping. They pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces, allowing you to cater to different palates. Classic choices include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a tangy honey mustard. For a touch of heat, consider serving them with a spicy sriracha sauce or a zesty salsa.
Encourage your guests to mix and match their dipping sauces for a fun and interactive snack experience. This not only enhances the flavors of the sausage balls but also adds an element of excitement to your appetizer table. Consider setting up a small dipping station with a selection of sauces to let everyone find their favorite combination.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Sausage Balls
- 1 pound of sausage (breakfast or Italian)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Mix all ingredients well to ensure even flavor distribution.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Form the Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
These sausage balls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they are unlikely!), store the Cream Cheese Sausage Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This way, you can enjoy these savory treats even after the party is over.
For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked sausage balls. Simply shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just pop them in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Perfect Pairings
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls not only shine on their own but also pair beautifully with various side dishes and beverages. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal, or offer a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, cheeses, and crackers for a more substantial spread.
When it comes to beverages, consider serving these savory bites with light beers, fruity cocktails, or even a refreshing iced tea. The combination of flavors will enhance your overall dining experience, making your gathering even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.
→ Can I freeze the sausage balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with these sausage balls?
They pair well with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard dip.
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Deliciously savory and perfectly cheesy, Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate party appetizer or game-day snack.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Plates
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 20 balls
What You'll Need
For the Sausage Balls
- 1 pound of sausage (breakfast or Italian)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the sausage, cream cheese, 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. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 12g