There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, cheesy snack fresh out of the oven. Classic cream cheese sausage balls bring together the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spices, making them a must-have for your next gathering or a cozy family night. Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a party appetizer, these bite-sized delights never disappoint.
Why You’ll Love Classic Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
From their melt-in-your-mouth texture to their simple preparation, sausage balls are a beloved dish for good reason. These bites are:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, appetizers, or even a snack.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and cheese to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Classic Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Before you get started, gather these ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Breakfast sausage | 1 lb (mild, hot, or preferred variety) |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz, softened |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
| Bisquick mix (or other biscuit baking mix) | 1 1/4 cups |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Smoked paprika (optional) | 1/2 tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix thoroughly until a uniform dough forms.
2. Shape the Sausage Balls
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture.
- Roll each portion into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Space them slightly apart to allow for even cooking.
3. Bake the Sausage Balls
- 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.
Serving Suggestions
Classic cream cheese sausage balls are versatile and pair well with many sides and dips. Here are some ideas:
- Breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
- Appetizer: Pair with honey mustard, ranch, or spicy aioli for dipping.
- Snack: Enjoy them on their own or with a simple green salad.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: This helps the mixture blend more easily.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough sausage balls.
- Adjust the Spices: Add cayenne for extra heat or dried herbs for added flavor.
Variations to Try
1. Cheesy Explosion
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
2. Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick.
3. Sweet and Savory
Drizzle the sausage balls with honey for a sweet contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
2. Can I freeze sausage balls?
Absolutely. Freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
3. What type of sausage works best?
Any breakfast sausage works well. Choose mild, hot, or flavored varieties based on your preference.
4. How do I reheat leftover sausage balls?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds until warmed through.
5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture.
6. Are these sausage balls spicy?
Not unless you use hot sausage or add extra spices like cayenne. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 sausage balls) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 |
| Protein | ~8g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6g |
Make These Crowd-Pleasers Today
Classic cream cheese sausage balls are more than just a recipe; they’re a memory-maker. Whether you’re sharing them with family, bringing them to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.
Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the magic of these irresistible bites!
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Classic Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 sausage balls
Description
Soft, cheesy, and savory, these cream cheese sausage balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack. Perfect for breakfast, appetizers, or parties, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild, hot, or preferred variety)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/4 cups Bisquick mix (or other biscuit baking mix)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
- Shape the Sausage Balls:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture.
- Roll each portion into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake:
- 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.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing.
- Avoid overmixing the ingredients to keep the sausage balls tender.
- Adjust seasonings based on your preference (e.g., add cayenne for spice).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
