CREAM CHEESE SAUSAGE BALLS recipe

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious twist on the classic sausage ball recipe, adding an extra layer of creamy goodness.

By incorporating cream cheese, these savory snacks become irresistibly moist and tender, offering a delightful contrast to the crisp exterior.

With just a handful of ingredients, these sausage balls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a game-day snack, or simply craving a tasty appetizer.

What makes these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls truly unique is the addition of cream cheese, which not only enhances the flavor but also creates a rich, velvety texture that elevates the entire dish.

Key Ingredients to Make Perfect Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Hot pork sausage – Provides the bold, spicy base flavor that makes these sausage balls stand out.

Cream cheese – Softened and blended with the sausage to create a creamy, tender texture throughout.

Bisquick baking mix – Adds structure and lightness to the sausage balls, ensuring they hold their shape while baking.

Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the mixture, delivering pockets of cheesy goodness in every bite.

What types of cheese work best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese is a popular choice for these sausage balls, but you can experiment with other varieties! Some readers enjoy using a mix of cheeses, like pepper jack for a bit of heat, or a Mexican blend for extra flavor.

How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Mix the hot pork sausage and softened cream cheese in a stand mixer or large mixing bowl until fully combined, forming a smooth, even mixture.

Gradually add the Bisquick baking mix to the bowl, stirring until it is well incorporated and the dough starts to come together.

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the sausage mixture.

Use a spring-loaded cookie scoop or your hands to form 1-inch balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Chill the sausage balls in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help them retain their shape while baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Serve hot and enjoy!

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Some readers have had success with cooking sausage balls in an air fryer! While the exact cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer, generally, smaller sausage balls will cook at around 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to check that the sausage is fully cooked inside.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls

For best results, use an electric mixer to thoroughly combine the sausage and cream cheese. If mixing by hand, ensure all ingredients are well blended to achieve a uniform texture.

Chilling the sausage balls before baking helps prevent them from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in perfectly round balls.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.

Creative Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, try substituting the Bisquick baking mix with Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix for an added burst of flavor.

You can also replace the shredded cheddar cheese with a pimento cheese spread or your favorite flavored cheese to personalize the dish.

These variations provide a new spin on a classic appetizer that everyone will love!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

To store leftovers, place the cooled sausage balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

How long can I freeze these sausage balls, and will they lose flavor?

You can freeze the sausage balls either before or after baking them, and they’ll maintain their flavor. Once cooked, let them cool completely before freezing.

They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

FAQ for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

Can I add onions to the sausage balls?

Yes, you can add onions! However, if you use raw onions, they may still be a bit crunchy since these sausage balls don’t bake for too long. If you prefer a softer texture, try sautéing the onions first before mixing them in. This will take away the crunch and give a more subtle onion flavor.

How do I prevent the mixture from being too dry when using a biscuit mix?

If you’re using a pre-mixed biscuit package like Red Lobster Cheddar Bay biscuits, be sure to add butter as suggested on the box. Without the added butter, the mixture can turn out too dry. Also, a bit more shredded cheese can help keep everything moist and flavorful.

Do I need to chill the sausage balls before baking?

Chilling the sausage balls before baking isn’t required, but it can help them keep their shape during baking. Cold dough is easier to handle and prevents the balls from spreading too much in the oven.

Can I make the sausage ball mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sausage ball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly.

Any dip recommendations to serve with these sausage balls?

Honey mustard is a favorite, but readers have also tried sour cream and onion dip, dijon mayo, and even grape jelly! The sausage balls are flavorful enough on their own, but a good dip can elevate them for a party spread.

Can I cook the sausage before mixing it into the dough?

You can cook the sausage first if you prefer. Doing so can help reduce the amount of grease and ensure that the sausage balls keep their shape better. However, the recipe as written uses raw sausage, which cooks fully in the oven.

Can I use a different type of sausage, like venison or turkey?

Yes! Some readers have had great results using alternatives like venison sausage or turkey sausage. Keep in mind that different types of sausage may have varying fat content, which can slightly change the texture and flavor of the sausage balls.

How do I stop the bottoms of the sausage balls from browning too quickly?

If your sausage balls are browning too much on the bottom, try using parchment paper instead of foil, or adjust the baking rack to a higher position in the oven. Some readers also recommend air bake pans, which help prevent over-browning.