Delicious Cream Cheese Sausage Balls for Perfect Appetizers

I first heard the request for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls at a family gathering when my sister-in-law casually asked if I could bring her favorite appetizer to the next holiday dinner. She described those tender, flavorful bites she loved at parties—baked sausage balls with that irresistible creamy cheese center. Making Cream Cheese Sausage Balls sounded simple enough, but I quickly realized perfecting them took a bit of practice. After a few tries, I found a recipe that my whole family adores, and these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls became a staple for busy weeknights, celebrations, and everything in between.

This recipe has that magic touch of comfort and convenience, making it a great go-to when you want to bring people together around the table without fuss. What I love most about Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is how they get everyone chatting and reaching for seconds, no matter the occasion. From quick after-school snacks to party snacks for gatherings, they fit in perfectly.

If you’re looking for a simple baked sausage balls idea or a creamy cheese appetizer that’s a crowd-pleaser, this Cream Cheese Sausage Balls recipe is ready to become your new favorite too. It’s a dinner table win every time, and I can’t wait to share my tips so you feel confident making it in your own kitchen. Plus, if your family enjoys this recipe, you’ll find other great meal ideas on MomsGate, like the cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip and creamy Reuben soup.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls including ground pork sausage, cream cheese, Bisquick, shredded cheddar, and spices

Here’s what goes into making these classic Cream Cheese Sausage Balls:

  • 1 pound ground pork sausage, preferably with some seasoning
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups bisquick baking mix
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the best Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, I recommend using a quality ground pork sausage with good seasoning. It cuts down on extra spices and keeps your recipe straightforward. Trust me, this Cream Cheese Sausage Balls ingredient list keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor!

You’ll find everything for this treat at your regular grocery store in the dairy and baking aisles. The bisquick baking mix is an easy shortcut that tenderizes the sausage balls and adds just the right texture. If you want to swap, all-purpose flour with a pinch of baking powder works but be ready for a slightly different crumb. For a lighter taste, chicken sausage is a fine substitute, and the cream cheese appetizer won’t lose its charm.

Prepare your cream cheese before mixing—taking it out early helps it blend smoothly into the sausage mixture. My family prefers sharp cheddar in our Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, but mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack can make a fun variation. This versatility means the recipe welcomes your personal touch without stress.

How to Make It

Making Cream Cheese Sausage Balls is straightforward once you get the rhythm down. Here’s my favorite way to bring this recipe from bowl to baked perfection.

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. This temperature cooks the sausage balls evenly without drying them out. While it warms, get your mixing bowl ready.
  2. Mix the sausage and cream cheese together. Use a spatula or your hands (wearing gloves if you prefer), and blend until combined. This step is where the creamy texture of your cream cheese appetizer really starts to shine in the sausage ball recipe.
  3. Add bisquick, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir just enough to mix everything without overworking. Overmixing can make the baked sausage balls too dense.
  4. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. I like to use a small cookie scoop for even sizing. Your kitchen will smell amazing while this Cream Cheese Sausage Balls cooks, and uniform pieces ensure consistent baking.
  5. Place sausage balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them a little space so air can circulate and the edges get golden.
  6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are ready when they’re golden brown on the outside and cooked through. If uncertain, a quick internal temperature check of 160°F confirms safety.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. These sausage balls carry heat inside and slice perfectly when just warm.

Here’s where I used to mess up my Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – rushing the mixing or baking too long. Now I always remember to time it carefully and keep the balls uniform in size, giving that perfect bite every time.

While your Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are baking, you’ll have time to tidy up or prepare dipping sauces. This sausage ball recipe pairs wonderfully with mustard sauce, ranch, or even a tangy cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip, which you can find on MomsGate.

Serving Ideas

Everyone reaches for seconds when this Cream Cheese Sausage Balls comes out with a few tasty accompaniments. My family loves serving these as party snacks—they’re easy to eat while mingling and always a hit for game day or holidays.

Serving Cream Cheese Sausage Balls with toothpicks on a platter ready for parties or snacks

These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are perfect on a platter with toothpicks for afternoon snack time too. Serve them alongside fresh-cut veggies or a simple green salad to balance the richness. I’ve noticed they’re especially good warmed up with a side of tangy mustard or a creamy homemade dip.

For special occasions, I add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top to make them look extra inviting. If you have leftovers (sometimes a rare occurrence in my house), they keep well in the fridge and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave. Leftovers also make great sandwich fillings or salad toppings for a quick flavor boost.

Another twist I’ve tried is adding a little diced jalapeno to the mix for a mild kick. I also swap cheddar for pepper jack on occasion, which my teens love. This sausage ball recipe now has several variations my family asks for. If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy the Philly cheesesteak soup recipe and the creamy Reuben soup idea on MomsGate.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some of the most common questions I’ve heard about Cream Cheese Sausage Balls from home cooks eager to get it just right:

Can I make this Cream Cheese Sausage Balls ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare and shape the sausage balls a day ahead, then store them covered in the fridge. Bake fresh right before serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have bisquick for my Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
You can substitute with 2 cups of all-purpose flour plus 1 tablespoon of baking powder. It won’t be quite the same, but still tasty.

How do I store leftover Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just adjust seasonings since some are milder.

What dipping sauces go well with these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?
Mustard-based sauces, ranch, or creamy dips like a cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip complement them beautifully.

How do I know when the Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are fully cooked?
Bake until golden brown on the outside. You can check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F.

Can I freeze Cream Cheese Sausage Balls before or after baking?
Both ways work. Freeze before baking to bake fresh later, or freeze after baking for a ready-to-eat snack.

Many home cooks have told me after making this baked sausage balls recipe that it’s one of their easiest crowd-pleasers. If you’d like more tips, The Country Cook, Plain Chicken, and Grilled Cheese Social all have wonderful stories and variations on Cream Cheese Sausage Balls worth checking out.

The Final Word

This Cream Cheese Sausage Balls recipe has earned a permanent place in my meal rotation because it shines whether we need a quick snack, party appetizer, or comfort food pick-me-up. It’s forgiving, flexible, and full of the flavors my family loves.

My Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Tips:

  • Always soften your cream cheese for the smoothest mix.
  • Use a cookie scoop for even-sized balls that bake uniformly.
  • Don’t overmix once you add the baking mix and cheese, or the texture gets too dense.

I’ve had success with several variations, including swapping cheddar for pepper jack or adding a little diced jalapeno for heat. My husband prefers the classic sharp cheddar version, while the kids love the jalapeno twist. This recipe invites you to make it your own in whatever way suits your family best.

I hope your home enjoys these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls as much as mine does. They bring people around the table with ease, give busy nights a delicious boost, and add a bit of joy to every gathering.

For other tasty ideas alongside Cream Cheese Sausage Balls, visit MomsGate’s cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip, creamy Reuben soup, and Philly cheesesteak soup recipes.

If you want to see other takes and helpful cooking advice, The Country Cook, Plain Chicken, and Grilled Cheese Social offer fantastic perspectives on this recipe favorite. You’ve got this—get ready for your own meal wins with these Cream Cheese Sausage Balls!

Print

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are savory, cheesy, and perfectly spiced bites that make an irresistible appetizer or snack for any occasion.

  • Author: Vienna Ellis
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb breakfast sausage, uncooked
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups Bisquick or baking mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked sausage and softened cream cheese until well blended.
  3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to form a uniform dough.
  4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with your favorite dipping sauce like spicy mustard or ranch dressing.

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