Sausage balls is a simple tasty snack thats made by mixing sausage, cheese, and cream cheese together. Theyre small round balls that you can grab anytime, whether its a quick after-school bite or a party treat. By adding cream cheese these snacks turn out extra soft and flavorfull so everyone keeps coming back.

In this post we gonna explain what sausage balls are, show why cream cheese makes em better, and share some ways you can mix up the recipe with different ingredients. You’ll even find an easy step-by-step guide so you can make them yourself—even if you’ve never baked a thing.

Whether youre planning a game night snack or a brunch side, sausage balls with cream cheese wont disappoint. Let’s jump in and explore these little delicious bites.

What are Sausage Balls?

Sausage balls are bite-sized treats made with ground sausage, shredded cheese, and a mix that helps it stick together— usually biscuit mix. You roll the mixture into lil balls and bake em till theyre golden. People often serve them at potlucks, family get-togethers, or tailgate parties because theyre easy to eat and taste great warm or at room temp.

They started in Southern cooking, where everyone loved to use ground sausage in different ways. Over time sausage balls spread all over the US and even other countries. Now you see em at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or just as a quick snack when youre hungry.

Benefits of Adding Cream Cheese

Putting cream cheese in sausage balls is a game changer. One big benefit is flavor— the creamy tang from the cheese goes perfectly with the salty sausage. As they bake the cream cheese melts and makes every bite rich and smooth.

Another plus is texture. Without cream cheese some sausage balls can be dry or crumbly, but the cream cheese keeps them moist and soft. It also helps balance the fat so the snack isnt too greasy. All together it makes the sausage balls way more enjoyable, and folks wont stop at just one.

Variations of Sausage Balls

You dont have to stick to one recipe— sausage balls are super flexable. Try these options:

Different Sausage: Swap pork for turkey or chicken for a leaner bite. Or use hot sausage if you like a little kick.
Cheese Choices: Instead of cheddar you can use mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a different taste.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular biscuit mix so everyone can enjoy em.

Feel free to mix in your own favorite flavors and make the recipe your own.

When to Serve Sausage Balls

Sausage balls work almost anytime you need a snack. Here are some ideas:

Appetizers: Perfect for parties since theyre easy to pick up and eat while you chat.
Gatherings: Great for birthdays, game days, or holiday celebrations— people always reach for em.
Brunch or Breakfast: Serve them with eggs and fruit for a fun morning spread.

Ingredients for Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Essential Ingredients

Ground Sausage: Pick pork, turkey, or chicken sausage.
Cream Cheese: Use room-temp cream cheese so it mixes easier.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack or Monterey Jack works too.

Optional Add-ins

Herbs & Spices: Try parsley, chives, paprika, or cayenne for extra flavor.
Veggies: Finely chopped peppers or green onions add color and taste.
Dips: Marinara, ranch, or honey mustard are all great for dunkin.

Detailed Recipe for Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Ingredients List

1 lb ground sausage
1 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar is common)
2 cups biscuit mix
Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a big bowl mix sausage and cream cheese really well.
Stir in shredded cheese till blended.
Add biscuit mix a bit at a time and mix till it sticks together.
Roll into 1-inch balls and put on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake 20–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls

Use parchment paper so cleaning up is ez.
Make sure cream cheese is soft for better mixin.
Chill the mixture for a few minutes if its too sticky.

Storing and Reheating

Keep your sausage balls fresh by followin these tips:

Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use within 2–3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or zap in the microwave (but they might get soggy).

Pairing Suggestions

Make your snack time even better with these pairings:

Dips: Marinara sauce, honey mustard, or spicy ranch.
Drinks: Light beer, sparkling water, or fruit punch.
Sides: Veggie platter, fruit salad, or loaded potato skins.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per sausage ball (may vary):

Calories: ~100 calories
Protein: ~7 g
Fat: ~8 g
Carbs: ~1 g

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make sausage balls without cream cheese? Yeah, you can skip it and add extra shredded cheese instead, but they wont be as creamy.
How do I get them to hold shape? Dont add too much cream cheese, and chill the dough for a bit before rolling.
Can I freeze them? Absolutely—freeze cooked balls for up to 2–3 months.
What sausage is best? Breakfast sausage or spicy Italian gives great flavor.
Are these gluten-free? Use a gluten-free baking mix and they’ll be safe for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

Adding cream cheese to sausage balls makes them extra tasty and soft, perfect for any event. Try the recipe and play around with different ingredients to find your favorite combo. Your friends and family will love em—just watch how fast they disappear!