Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful treat that you can serve at any gathering. Perfect for game days, holiday parties, or even a cozy family dinner, these little bites pack a flavorful punch. The creamy texture from the cream cheese combined with the savory goodness of beef sausage makes them irresistibly delicious. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, Cream Cheese Sausage Balls will quickly become a favorite at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these tasty bites in no time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy and savory combination makes these balls a hit at any event.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a main dish.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake when ready to serve!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to modify cheese types or add spices for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls easier to prepare, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Why These Tools Matter

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the ingredients effortless and ensures everything is well combined.
• Baking sheets: Provides ample space for baking multiple batches at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform balls for even cooking.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are not your ordinary sausage balls. The cream cheese keeps them creamy and crazy delicious! So yummy (and easy!)

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 pound hot beef sausage
• 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened

For the Dry Mix

• 2 cups Bisquick baking mix

For the Cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix Meat and Cream Cheese

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 1 pound hot beef sausage with an 8-ounce block of softened cream cheese. You can also use a hand mixer or mix by hand if preferred.

Step 3: Add Bisquick Mix

Add in 2 cups of Bisquick baking mix into the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Stir until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheddar Cheese

Next, add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Feel free to be generous with your cheese measurements; stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Form Balls

Scoop out portions of the meat mixture and form them into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet. A spring-loaded cookie scoop works great for this step. If they don’t come out perfectly round, you can roll them in your hands briefly.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Refrigerate the baking sheets with the formed balls for about 10 minutes. This helps prevent them from spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

After chilling, bake in your preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until they are golden brown. Once done, serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these savory bites pair wonderfully with different accompaniments.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A classic choice that adds a cool and creamy flavor.
• Honey Mustard – The sweet and tangy profile complements the savory sausage balls perfectly.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds a smoky sweetness that enhances the overall taste experience.

As Part of a Cheese Board

• Cheddar & Gouda – Pair these sausage balls with slices of sharp cheddar and smooth gouda for a delightful contrast.
• Olives and Pickles – Add briny olives and crunchy pickles to balance the richness of the sausage balls.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• Lettuce Wraps – Serve the sausage balls inside crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.

On Skewers

• Skewered Bites – Thread sausage balls onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for a fun presentation.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Making Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is easy, but a few tips can elevate them to perfection.

• Choose Quality Ingredients – Use high-quality beef sausage and fresh cream cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t Skip Chilling – Chilling the formed balls before baking helps maintain their shape during cooking.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Feel free to mix in different types of shredded cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels – If you prefer milder flavors, choose a mild sausage or reduce the amount of spicy seasoning.
• Bake on Parchment Paper – Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are delicious on their own, but pairing them with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Veggie Platter – Crisp vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers add freshness.
2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory sausage balls.
3. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the sausage balls.
5. Macaroni Salad – This creamy dish pairs well with savory flavors and adds comfort to your spread.
6. Deviled Eggs – Classic deviled eggs bring an elegant touch to any appetizer table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cream Cheese Sausage Balls can be simple, but some common mistakes may affect the final result.

• Not Chilling the Mixture: Skipping the chilling step can lead to flattened sausage balls. Always chill them for at least 10 minutes before baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold cream cheese makes it hard to mix. Be sure to soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easier blending.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make the sausage balls tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Not monitoring baking times can result in undercooked or burnt sausage balls. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures vary.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season properly may lead to bland flavors. Consider adding spices or herbs for extra taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Place cooled sausage balls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds, checking until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are savory bites made with beef sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, mixed into a doughy ball and baked until golden.

Can I customize Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like green onions, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

How do I know when my Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are done?

They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. A cooking time of about 25 minutes at 350°F is usually perfect.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and freeze it before baking or bake them ahead and reheat later.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are incredibly delicious and versatile, making them perfect for any gathering or as a tasty snack. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients to make them uniquely yours!

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