Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack that’s both cheesy and packed with flavor. They bring together savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and a bit of biscuit mix that gives them a tender but firm texture. These little balls are crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside — a combo that’s hard to resist.
I love making these for parties or just because! They’re super simple to put together, and I usually double the batch because they disappear so fast. One tip I always follow is to make sure the cream cheese is softened so it mixes smoothly with the sausage and seasoning. It really keeps everything moist and rich without being greasy.
These sausage balls are fantastic warm right out of the oven, but they also taste great at room temperature, which makes them easy to prep ahead for game day or holiday gatherings. I usually serve them with a little mustard or spicy dip on the side, and it’s always a hit with friends and family. Honestly, these are the kind of snacks that make any get-together feel a bit more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground breakfast sausage: This is the main flavor builder. You can use mild for a gentler taste or spicy if you like a little heat. Ground turkey sausage works well for a lighter option.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese keeps the sausage balls moist and creamy. Make sure it’s room temp so it mixes smoothly. You can swap with Greek yogurt or a soft cheese like Neufchâtel for less fat.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness and gooey texture. Feel free to use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend if you want a milder or creamier flavor.
Baking mix / biscuit mix: This binds everything together. Bisquick is common, but you can substitute with homemade biscuit mix or a gluten-free baking mix to suit dietary needs.
How Do I Get the Best Texture and Flavor in Sausage Balls?
Mixing the ingredients well is key. Softened cream cheese blends with sausage to keep the balls moist. Don’t overmix once the baking mix is in—just combine until a thick dough forms.
- Soften cream cheese to room temp first for easy mixing.
- Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to combine ingredients evenly.
- Roll the mixture into evenly sized balls (1 – 1½ inch) so they cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give balls space to get crispy edges.
- Bake at 350°F for 25-30 mins until golden but still tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I recommend a large one to stir everything together easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients and seasonings.
- Baking sheet – a standard sheet works well for baking the sausage balls.
- Parchment paper or baking spray – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Ice cream scoop or teaspoon – helps you shape evenly-sized balls quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon crumbles instead of sausage for a smoky flavor.
- Add chopped green onions or jalapeños for extra zest and freshness.
- Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to give a tangy kick.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy based on preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups baking mix or biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
Optional Seasonings and Garnish:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In under 45 minutes, you’ll have warm, cheesy sausage balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the sausage balls won’t stick.
2. Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ground sausage. Stir well until the two are fully blended together.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Now toss in the shredded cheddar, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until it forms a thick, even dough.
4. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Roll the mixture into little balls about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The sausage balls are ready when they’re golden brown on top and cooked through.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch, if you like.
These are wonderful while warm and perfect with a dip, like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup. Enjoy your tasty, cheesy sausage balls!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure the sausage is fully thawed before mixing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the mixture.
Can I Make Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake straight from the fridge and add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Substitute the Cheese or Baking Mix?
Yes! Feel free to swap cheddar with pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. For the baking mix, you can use gluten-free biscuit mix or make your own if desired.