Oh, let me tell you about the irresistible magic of sausage balls with cream cheese! These little bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of buttery goodness that just melts in your mouth. Seriously, they’re like little pillows of flavor! I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering; my relatives couldn’t get enough. They were practically gone before I could even sit down! The rich cream cheese adds such a delightful texture, and when you pop one in your mouth, the burst of cheesy, meaty goodness is just heavenly. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become the star of your next party or game day spread. You won’t be able to stop at just one!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most scrumptious sausage balls with cream cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground sausage: I like to use a flavorful sausage—spicy or mild, depending on your taste!
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. It adds that creamy texture we love!
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The sharper the cheese, the more flavor it brings to the party!
- 1 cup biscuit mix: This is what binds everything together and gives those delicious, fluffy bites. I always keep a box on hand for quick snacks!
With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re on your way to creating some truly irresistible bites! Can’t wait for you to try them!
How to Prepare Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Making these sausage balls with cream cheese is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll have a blast whipping them up! Let’s dive into the steps, so you can enjoy these tasty bites in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it helps cook the sausage balls evenly, giving you that perfect golden brown finish. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Use a fork or your hands to mix them together until it’s nice and smooth. You want that creamy texture to blend well with the sausage, so keep mixing until there are no lumps. It should feel velvety and a bit sticky—that’s how you know you’re on the right track!
Step 3: Add Cheese and Biscuit Mix
Now, it’s time to add in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the biscuit mix. Stir everything together until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. I like to use my hands to really get in there and make sure everything is combined well. You’ll end up with a thick, cheesy dough that you can’t wait to turn into balls!
Step 4: Forming the Balls
Grab a small amount of the mixture—about the size of a golf ball—and roll it into a smooth ball using your hands. Place these beauties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space in between so they have room to puff up. You should be able to get around 24 sausage balls from this recipe!
Step 5: Baking Instructions
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let those sausage balls bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely golden brown color and your kitchen starts smelling like a savory paradise. Once they’re out, let them cool for a minute—if you can wait that long—before diving in!
Tips for Success
To ensure your sausage balls with cream cheese come out absolutely perfect, here are some of my go-to tips! First, choose a high-quality sausage for the best flavor—sometimes, a local butcher’s sausage can make all the difference! And don’t skip the cream cheese; it adds that luscious texture we all love. Also, make sure your cream cheese is softened; it blends much easier when it’s at room temperature.
When mixing, don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! It’s the best way to ensure everything is combined evenly. Lastly, keep an eye on them while they bake; every oven is different. You want that gorgeous golden brown color, so keep checking around the 20-minute mark. These simple tips will help you create the most delicious, crowd-pleasing bites!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things for these delightful sausage balls with cream cheese. Each serving, which is about 2 balls, packs a punch of flavor along with the following estimated nutrition:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But one thing’s for sure—these little bites are definitely worth every calorie! Enjoy guilt-free snacking!
FAQ About Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Can I make sausage balls with low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but just a heads up—while it’ll still work, the flavor and texture might not be quite as rich and creamy as using regular cream cheese. You may find the sausage balls are a bit drier, so I’d recommend adding a splash of milk or an extra bit of sausage to keep them moist. But honestly, why not go for the full flavor experience? You deserve it!
How do I store leftover sausage balls?
Storing leftover sausage balls with cream cheese is super simple! Just let them cool completely, then pop them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before putting them in the container. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every last bite!
Can I freeze sausage balls?
You bet! Freezing is a fantastic way to keep these tasty bites on hand for later. Just shape the sausage balls as directed, but don’t bake them yet. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s like having homemade snacks ready to go anytime you crave them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, there are so many reasons to adore these sausage balls with cream cheese! Here are just a few that keep me coming back for more:
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of savory sausage and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that everyone loves!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, these bites fit right in!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare them ahead of time, freeze them, and bake them when you need a quick snack or appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Seriously, you’ll be the star of the party with these! They disappear faster than you can say “sausage ball!”
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or cheese varieties to make them your own; the possibilities are endless!
Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’re always a hit. I can’t wait for you to try them!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your sausage balls with cream cheese, the right accompaniments can really elevate the experience! I love serving these savory bites with a variety of dipping sauces. A classic choice is a tangy barbecue sauce; the sweetness perfectly balances the savory flavors of the sausage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy mustard or a creamy ranch dressing for a delightful kick!
For a more sophisticated touch, you can serve them alongside a zesty chimichurri or a homemade garlic aioli. And don’t forget about presentation! Arrange them on a platter with colorful veggie sticks or a fresh salad to add a pop of color and crunch. These little additions not only look great but also complement the rich flavors of the sausage balls. Trust me, your guests will love the variety, and you’ll be the host with the most!
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Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese: 5 Irresistible Secrets
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious sausage balls made with cream cheese for a savory snack.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup biscuit mix
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine sausage and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add cheddar cheese and biscuit mix. Mix well.
- Form mixture into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve warm for best flavor.
- Can be frozen for later use.
- Try adding spices for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: sausage balls with cream cheese
