The savory aroma of these sausage balls will hit you the moment they come out of the oven warm, golden, and packed with layers of cheesy, spicy goodness. A southern classic with a creamy twist, these bite-sized treats combine pork sausage, tangy cream cheese, and sharp cheddar in the perfect ratio to deliver comfort in every bite.
Whether you’re planning for a holiday gathering, prepping game day snacks, or just want something satisfying on hand, these sausage balls are your go-to. They’re quick to whip up, freeze beautifully, and reheat in minutes, ideal for meal prep or last-minute entertaining. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them solo for maximum flavor!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb pork sausage (mild or spicy)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 ¼ cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix well until evenly incorporated.
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Add the baking mix, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
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Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
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Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 105 kcal per ball | Servings: 24 sausage balls
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese: A Crowd-Pleasing Southern Classic
Creamy, cheesy, savory, and utterly satisfying, sausage balls with cream cheese are one of those nostalgic recipes that blend simplicity with mouthwatering flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for game day, or need an easy breakfast snack, these bite-sized delights are a go-to for countless home cooks. What makes them so irresistible? It’s the rich, creamy filling from the cream cheese, the punch of sharp cheddar, and the savory meatiness of sausage, all held together by a baking mix like Bisquick. In this expanded post, we’ll dive deep into the history, variations, tips, and serving ideas behind this Southern favorite.
History and Origin of Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are a quintessential dish in the American South, often making appearances during holidays, tailgating events, potlucks, and family reunions. The original version likely dates back several decades and gained popularity thanks to its use of pantry staples like sausage, cheddar cheese, and Bisquick. It’s a recipe that embodies Southern hospitality, simple to make, easy to share, and loved by nearly everyone.
The addition of cream cheese is a modern twist, elevating the traditional recipe by giving it a creamier, more indulgent texture. The cream cheese also helps keep the sausage balls moist even when reheated, making them ideal for make-ahead meals and freezer-friendly storage.
What Makes Sausage Balls So Popular?
There’s a reason this recipe has stood the test of time and it isn’t just nostalgia. Sausage balls with cream cheese tick all the boxes when it comes to a perfect dish:
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Flavorful: With the rich taste of pork sausage, the tang of sharp cheddar, and the creamy texture of cream cheese, these bites offer bold flavors in every bite.
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Versatile: Enjoy them as appetizers, breakfast bites, snacks, or even as part of a brunch buffet.
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Easy to Make: With minimal prep and common ingredients, these come together in less than an hour.
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Kid-Friendly: Mild versions of this recipe are perfect for little hands and picky eaters.
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Perfect for Entertaining: They hold up well at room temperature and reheat easily, ideal for serving a crowd.
Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions
While the recipe is incredibly straightforward, there are lots of ways to adapt it based on dietary preferences, spice level, or what you already have in your pantry.
1. Sausage:
You can use any type of ground sausage: breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or spicy sausage for a kick. Turkey or chicken sausage are good leaner options.
2. Cream Cheese:
Full-fat cream cheese provides the best richness and binding. You can use light cream cheese or even dairy-free cream cheese alternatives to reduce fat or adapt for lactose intolerance.
3. Cheese:
Sharp cheddar is the go-to, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.
4. Baking Mix (Bisquick):
The baking mix adds structure and a slight fluffiness to the sausage balls. Gluten-free baking mix can easily be substituted for a GF version.
5. Spices:
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne can all be added to customize the flavor.
Optional Add-ins:
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Finely chopped jalapeños for heat
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Minced onions or scallions for texture
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A splash of hot sauce or mustard for tang
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Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls Every Time
While sausage balls are quite forgiving, a few simple tips can make the process even smoother:
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Use softened cream cheese: This ensures even mixing and a smoother texture.
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Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
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Mix thoroughly but don’t overwork: Overmixing can make the sausage balls tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
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Use a cookie scoop: A scoop makes portioning faster and ensures even cooking.
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Don’t overcrowd the baking tray: Leave enough space between balls for air circulation to get a golden exterior.
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Bake on parchment paper or a silicone mat: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
How to Store, Reheat, and Freeze
Storage:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
You can reheat sausage balls in the microwave (20–30 seconds), air fryer (3–4 minutes at 350°F), or oven (5–7 minutes at 350°F). They reheat best when wrapped in foil or covered to retain moisture.
Freezing:
Sausage balls freeze extremely well. You can freeze them baked or unbaked.
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To Freeze Before Baking: After shaping the balls, place them on a tray in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the bake time.
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To Freeze After Baking: Cool completely, then freeze. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage balls pair beautifully with a variety of dips and side items. Here are some ideas to level up your presentation:
Dips:
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Spicy mustard
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Ranch dressing
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BBQ sauce
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Creamy sriracha mayo
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Honey Dijon
Sides:
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Fresh fruit platter
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Deviled eggs
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Mini pancakes for a brunch spread
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Cheese and charcuterie board additions
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Roasted veggies or simple salad
For Breakfast:
Serve alongside scrambled eggs or in a breakfast sandwich. They even go great with maple syrup on the side for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Making It Ahead for Parties
One of the best parts about this recipe is how party-friendly it is. If you’re preparing for a gathering, you can:
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Mix the dough up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate.
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Shape the balls and freeze them weeks in advance.
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Bake the night before and simply reheat before serving.
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Serve with toothpicks or on a platter with a variety of dips for an interactive appetizer.
Why Cream Cheese Makes a Difference
Traditional sausage balls often run the risk of drying out, especially after they’ve cooled. The addition of cream cheese is a game changer. Not only does it keep the sausage balls moist and creamy on the inside, but it also adds richness and helps them hold together better, especially when using leaner sausage or alternative flours. If you’ve ever had sausage balls that were too crumbly or tough, cream cheese is your secret weapon for an upgrade.
Healthier Variations
If you’re looking for lighter or gluten-free versions of this recipe, you’re in luck:
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Use turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat content.
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Swap out the baking mix with almond flour and baking powder for a low-carb version.
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Choose reduced-fat cheese and cream cheese.
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Add grated zucchini or carrots to the mixture for added fiber and nutrients.
Even with these swaps, the flavor remains bold and satisfying, proving that indulgence can still be nutritious.
Conclusion
Sausage balls with cream cheese are more than just a Southern comfort food, they’re a versatile, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday brunch, need a game-day appetizer, or want a freezer-friendly snack, this recipe will become a favorite in your rotation. With creamy interiors, cheesy edges, and just the right hint of spice, these bites offer a taste of home in every mouthful. So go ahead and double the batch, get creative with seasonings, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow.