Cream cheese sausage balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together the creamy texture of cheese and the robust flavor of sausage. They are easy to prepare and can be baked to golden perfection, making them ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage (breakfast sausage works best)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup milk
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 sausage balls. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 sausage ball) contains approximately 120 calories, 8g of fat, 6g of protein, 2g of carbohydrates, and 1g of fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sausage until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the chopped green onions and milk until the mixture is cohesive.
- Using your hands, form small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Leave some space between each ball to allow for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. You can also replace cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, or use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
These sausage balls are perfect as a standalone snack or appetizer. They pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy mustard. Serve them alongside vegetable platters or cheese boards for an impressive spread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are cooled completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough sausage balls.
- Not preheating the oven may cause uneven cooking.
- Using cold cream cheese can make mixing difficult.
- Not leaving space between balls can lead to them merging while baking.
- Baking at too high a temperature may burn the outside.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
- Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before forming balls for easier handling.
- Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences.
- Consider adding diced jalapeños for extra heat.
FAQs
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls and refrigerate them before baking. They can also be frozen and baked later.
What is the best way to serve them?
Serving them warm with a side of dipping sauce enhances their flavor. Popular choices include ranch, BBQ, or marinara sauce.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian sausage can be used as alternatives.
How do I know when they are done?
Sausage balls are done when they are golden brown and cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) for pork sausage.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cream cheese sausage balls are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and enticing textures. Perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a snack, these savory bites will become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 pound 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 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sausage until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the chopped green onions and milk until the mixture is cohesive.
- Using your hands, form small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
