Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Elevate your next gathering with these irresistible cream cheese sausage balls, a five-ingredient delight that’s both quick to prepare and utterly delicious. Ready in under 30 minutes, they promise a satisfying snack or appetizer that will leave your guests craving more.
The combination of spicy sausage and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion, perfectly complemented by the rich, melty cheddar and fresh chives. Whether served at holiday parties or game day celebrations, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please a crowd.
Simply pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an added layer of indulgence. With their ease of preparation and delightful taste, these cream cheese sausage balls are bound to become a go-to recipe in your entertaining repertoire.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Ingredients
Experience the harmonious blend of flavors and textures with the ingredients for cream cheese sausage balls. The spicy sausage provides a savory kick, while the creamy cheese creates a rich, indulgent base that binds everything together. Bisquick adds the perfect structure, ensuring each bite is satisfying. Shredded cheddar introduces a melty richness, complemented by the fresh, vibrant chives that enhance both flavor and color, making these bites as delightful to the eye as they are to the palate.
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A Deliciously Simple Recipe
These five-ingredient cream cheese sausage balls are not only quick and easy to whip up in under 30 minutes but also pack a flavorful punch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or game day snacking, they can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces to elevate your appetizer game. To make the most of this delightful recipe, consider the following tips, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions.
Recipe Tips
- Chill for Perfect Shape
After forming the sausage balls, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step is crucial as it helps the meatballs maintain their shape during cooking, preventing them from spreading out and becoming flat. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall texture, resulting in a more satisfying bite. - Mix Thoroughly
For the best results, ensure that the cream cheese is fully incorporated with the sausage before adding the other ingredients. Mixing until there are no chunks of cream cheese will result in a smoother consistency and better flavor distribution throughout the meatballs. Using a rubber spatula or your hands can help achieve this smooth texture. - Experiment with Seasoning
While this recipe is delicious as-is, feel free to customize the flavors. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also be mixed in for added freshness. Tailoring the spices to your liking can make these sausage balls uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
- Dipping Sauces
Pair these savory sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor. Classic choices like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce complement the richness of the cream cheese and sausage beautifully. For a spicy twist, try serving them with a sriracha mayo or a tangy buffalo sauce. - Fresh Veggie Platter
Serve your cream cheese sausage balls alongside a colorful platter of fresh vegetables. Crisp carrots, crunchy celery, and cherry tomatoes add a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory meatballs. This not only enhances the presentation but also provides a light, healthy option to balance out the indulgence of the sausage balls. - Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Elevate your appetizer spread by including the sausage balls on a cheese and charcuterie board. Pair them with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crackers. This combination creates a delightful grazing experience that’s perfect for entertaining guests, allowing them to sample a variety of flavors.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While spicy sausage adds a nice kick, you can substitute it with mild sausage or even turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor. - How do I store leftovers?
Leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes until warmed through. - Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes, these meatballs freeze wonderfully! Once formed, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to three months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sausage balls up to the point of baking. Refrigerate them for a day before baking, or freeze them for longer storage. This makes it easy to have a delicious appetizer ready whenever you need it!
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground spicy sausage
- 1/2 pound cream cheese softened
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Begin by lining two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. Set these aside for later use.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Use either your hands or a rubber spatula to blend these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring there are no visible chunks of cream cheese. A smooth mixture is preferable for optimal texture.
- Incorporate the Bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives into the bowl. Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
- With your hands, scoop out the mixture and form it into balls approximately two tablespoons in size (around one inch in diameter). Roll each meatball gently in your hands before placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Refrigerate the baking sheets for 30 minutes to allow the meatballs to chill. This step is crucial as it helps prevent the meatballs from spreading during baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
- Bake the meatballs for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch.
- Serve the meatballs immediately and enjoy!