Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – sweet dreams kitchen

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful appetizer that everyone will enjoy! These savory bites are perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings. Made with flavorful beef sausage, creamy cheese, and spices, they are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be served warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
Flavor Packed: The combination of beef sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar creates a rich flavor that is irresistible.
Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for any occasion—serve them at parties, potlucks, or as a comforting snack at home.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for an extra kick!
Crowd-Pleaser: These bite-sized balls are loved by both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures better results!

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone mat
Stand mixer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking while allowing excess grease to drain away.
Parchment paper or silicone mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls made with beef sausage, Bisquick, cream cheese, cheddar and spices. A classic appetizer that everyone will love!

Main Ingredients

16 ounce package ground beef country sausage
8 ounces cream cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 1/4 cups Bisquick

Spices and Seasonings

1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried sage
2 teaspoons dried parsley

Additional Ingredients

3 tablespoons milk
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish if desired
Optional: Barbecue sauce, Ranch or Honey Mustard sauce for dipping

How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with non-stick foil, a silicone mat, or parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Bisquick, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, dried parsley, and milk. If you have a stand mixer handy, use it for easier mixing; otherwise, mix well with your hands until everything is combined.

Step 3: Shape the Mixture

Shape the beef mixture into one-inch balls. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced apart to allow even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the Balls

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve warm from the oven! Garnish with fresh minced parsley if desired. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.

Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Sausage Balls! They’re sure to impress at any gathering!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, these sausage balls can be served in several delightful styles.

With Dipping Sauces

Barbecue Sauce – A sweet and tangy option that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the sausage balls.
Ranch Dressing – Creamy and herby, ranch dressing adds a cool contrast to the warm sausage balls.
Honey Mustard – The sweetness of honey mixed with the tang of mustard creates a delightful dip that enhances each bite.

As Part of a Platter

Vegetable Platter – Serve alongside fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a crunchy complement.
Cheese Board – Include your cream cheese sausage balls on a cheese board with various cheeses and crackers for an elegant touch.
Charcuterie Spread – Pair with cured meats, olives, and nuts for a hearty appetizer spread.

Garnished Options

Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
Sliced Jalapeños – For those who enjoy heat, adding sliced jalapeños can spice things up!

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

To achieve the best results with your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, keep these tips in mind.

Bold Flavoring – Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. Add more garlic powder or herbs to enhance the flavor.
Proper Mixing – Ensure all ingredients are well combined for uniform cooking and flavor throughout each ball.
Consistent Sizes – Shape your sausage balls into uniform sizes (about one inch) for even baking.
Oven Temperature Check – Always preheat your oven properly to ensure they bake evenly and reach that perfect golden brown color.
Cooling Time – Let them cool slightly before serving. This helps them firm up after baking and makes them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Serving side dishes alongside Cream Cheese Sausage Balls can create a rounded meal or appetizer experience. Here are some fantastic options.

Garden Salad – A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sausage balls.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that complements the flavors well.
Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage balls.
Deviled Eggs – These classic appetizers are easy to make and pair nicely with the bold flavors of the sausage balls.
Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch and their earthy flavor complements the dish wonderfully.
Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for a comforting side option that everyone will love.
Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit skewers provide sweetness and a refreshing bite that balances out savory snacks.
Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad with vegetables offers a filling yet refreshing accompaniment to your feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your appetizer turns out perfectly.

Using the wrong meat: Substituting beef sausage for pork sausage can alter the flavor. Make sure to use ground beef country sausage for the best taste.
Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make the balls tough. Combine the ingredients just until they are blended for a lighter texture.
Skipping the preheating step: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375°F before baking.
Neglecting to measure properly: Improper measurements can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
Not using parchment paper: Skipping parchment paper or a non-stick surface may cause sticking. Always line your baking sheet for easy removal and cleanup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will last for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Freezing Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cream Cheese Sausage Balls.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of beef?

Yes, turkey sausage is a great alternative and will provide a lighter option while keeping the flavors intact.

How do I customize my Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?

You can add extra spices, herbs, or even chopped vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Are Cream Cheese Sausage Balls gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking.

How long do Cream Cheese Sausage Balls take to cook?

They usually take about 20-25 minutes at 375°F until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful appetizer that everyone can enjoy at gatherings or as an everyday snack. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various spices and ingredients according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!