Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful blend of savory sausage and creamy cheese, perfect for any gathering or as a snack.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a classic appetizer that combines the rich flavors of sausage with the creamy texture of cream cheese. Ideal for parties or game day, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory and rich flavor that satisfies any craving
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in
The Perfect Party Snack
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate party snack that will leave your guests coming back for more. Their delightful combination of savory sausage and creamy cheese makes them irresistible. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, holiday party, or casual get-together, these bite-sized treats are sure to please a crowd. With their appealing golden-brown color and comforting aroma, they set the stage for a fun and festive atmosphere.
One of the best things about these sausage balls is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer alongside a tangy dipping sauce or enjoy them as a hearty snack. Pair them with your favorite drinks, and you've got a winning combination that everyone will love. Plus, they are easy to make in large batches, ensuring that there's plenty to go around.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
This recipe for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls calls for simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The star of the dish is the breakfast sausage, which brings a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the cream cheese and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. The addition of garlic and onion powder enhances the overall taste, making each bite a burst of flavor.
These ingredients not only contribute to the delicious flavor but also ensure a satisfying texture. The combination of sausage and cheese creates a rich, moist interior, while the flour helps bind everything together, resulting in a perfect exterior that’s golden and slightly crispy. This balance of flavors and textures is what makes these sausage balls so special.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly
Another great aspect of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is that they can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy hosts. You can prepare the mixture, form the balls, and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. This allows you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen when it’s time to serve.
If you want to take it a step further, these sausage balls freeze beautifully. Simply place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Having a stash of these savory bites on hand means you'll always be prepared for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Form the Balls
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
These can be served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls can be served in many delightful ways. For a bit of zing, consider offering a side of spicy mustard or a zesty ranch dip. The tanginess of the dip complements the richness of the sausage balls perfectly, adding another layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.
If you want to elevate your presentation, arrange the sausage balls on a platter with fresh herbs or sliced vegetables. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also provides a refreshing contrast to the savory bites. Your guests will appreciate the effort, and it makes for an eye-catching display.
Storage Tips
To keep your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls fresh, it's important to store them properly. If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy exterior while warming the delicious filling.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked sausage balls. Just ensure they have cooled completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, just reheat directly from the freezer in the oven, making this a convenient option for quick snacks or impromptu gatherings.
Customization Ideas
Get creative with your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls by customizing the flavors to suit your taste. You can experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian or maple sausage, for a unique twist. Adding chopped herbs, like parsley or chives, can also enhance the flavor while adding freshness.
Consider mixing in other cheeses, such as pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture. If you want to sneak in some veggies, finely chopped bell peppers or spinach can be added to the mixture. This flexibility makes these sausage balls not only delicious but also a fun way to try out new flavor combinations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I serve with Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
These sausage balls pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue sauce, or mustard.
→ Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful blend of savory sausage and creamy cheese, perfect for any gathering or as a snack.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Home Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 balls
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 12g