The Best Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Tired of dry, crumbly sausage balls that fall apart? We’ve got the solution you’ve been searching for!

These Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese are a total game-changer. The cream cheese keeps them incredibly moist and adds a tangy richness that elevates this classic appetizer to something truly special.

One bite and you’ll understand why this version has taken over Pinterest! Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch, game day spread, or just need an easy crowd-pleaser, this recipe is about to become your new favorite. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Never Dry: The cream cheese ensures these bite-sized appetizers stay moist and tender, unlike traditional recipes. Say goodbye to dry, disappointing sausage balls forever!

Rich Flavor: Cream cheese adds a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage. It’s a flavor combination that keeps people coming back for more.

Crowd Pleaser: Even people who think they don’t like sausage balls love this version. The cream cheese makes them so much more refined and delicious!

Foolproof Recipe: With just four ingredients and simple steps, you can’t mess this up. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or busy hosts!

Ingredients

Cream Cheese: Softened block cream cheese is the secret weapon for moisture. This is what transforms ordinary sausage balls into something extraordinary!

Bisquick: The standard baking mix binder that holds everything together. You can also use a homemade baking mix if you prefer.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cuts through the richness of the cream cheese. The sharpness adds depth and prevents the balls from tasting one-dimensional.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream Ingredients: In a stand mixer (or bowl), beat the softened cream cheese and sausage together until fully combined. This step is key—you want the cream cheese evenly distributed throughout!

2. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the Bisquick and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until a dough forms and everything is well incorporated without overmixing.

3. Scoop: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to form 1-inch balls. Rolling them smooth with your hands gives them a professional look and helps them cook evenly.

4. Bake: Arrange on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through with no pink in the center.

5. Cool: Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to set slightly. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle and eat!

Tips for Success

Soften the Cream Cheese: If the cream cheese is cold, you will have lumps that won’t mix in properly. Microwave it for 15 seconds if needed, or let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the balls dry and prevent proper binding. Grate your own from a block—it only takes a few minutes!

Stand Mixer: This dough is thick and can be tough to mix by hand. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment saves your arm muscles and ensures even mixing.

Even Sizing: Use a cookie scoop to keep all your sausage balls the same size. This ensures they all cook at the same rate and look professionally uniform.

Don’t Overbake: Watch them carefully in the last few minutes. Overbaking will dry them out, defeating the whole purpose of adding cream cheese!

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese Variations

Herbed: Add dried parsley or chives for color and fresh flavor. Fresh herbs work too—just use three times the amount!

Spicy Cream: Use a spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the mixture. A dash of hot sauce mixed into the cream cheese also works beautifully!

Garlic: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder for a savory kick. Garlic lovers can even add a bit of minced fresh garlic.

Ranch Style: Mix in a tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix for an addictive flavor twist that’s perfect with beer.

Italian Inspired: Use Italian sausage and add dried oregano and basil. Serve with marinara for dipping!

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a breakfast side with scrambled eggs. They’re hearty enough to make a complete morning meal alongside some fresh fruit!

Perfect appetizer with a honey mustard dipping sauce. The sweet-tangy sauce complements the savory richness beautifully.

Great for holiday brunch spreads alongside other finger foods. They hold up well on a buffet table and can sit at room temperature for a while.

Pair them with a simple green salad to balance the richness. The fresh, crisp vegetables are a nice contrast to the warm, savory balls.

FAQs

Why are my sausage balls flat? The mixture might have been too warm, causing them to spread. Chill the shaped balls for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up.

Can I make the dough ahead? Yes, make the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. This actually makes the dough easier to work with since it’s firmer when cold!

Can I freeze these? Absolutely! Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the cook time.

Final Thoughts

Once you try Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese, you will never go back to the original recipe. They are tender, flavorful, and impossible to eat just one of!

The cream cheese truly is the magic ingredient that transforms this simple appetizer into something everyone raves about. Your guests will definitely ask what makes these so much better than regular sausage balls!

Make a double batch—they freeze beautifully and disappear fast. Having them on hand means you’re always ready for unexpected guests or last-minute entertaining!

Ready to make the moistest sausage balls ever? Pin this recipe and let’s get baking!