Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

There’s something about a warm, cheesy, savory snack that just makes everyone smile. Cream cheese sausage balls are one of those recipes you whip up and suddenly realize you should have made a double batch because they disappear faster than you can blink! This easy-to-make dish is a crowd favorite for good reason: it combines the perfect blend of spices, creaminess, and cheesy goodness, all in a bite-sized form. Whether you’re hosting game night, a holiday brunch, or just looking for a snack that packs a punch, these sausage balls never disappoint.

I remember the first time I made these for a family get-together. My cousin took a bite, and her eyes lit up as she reached for another one before even finishing the first! It was one of those moments where I knew I’d hit the jackpot with a recipe. It’s now become a must-have for our family gatherings—especially around the holidays when everyone craves something warm and hearty.

this RECIPE

A recipe rooted in tradition (with a few tasty twists!)

Sausage balls have been a beloved Southern appetizer for decades, traditionally made with just sausage, cheese, and baking mix. But like any great recipe, it’s evolved over time. The addition of cream cheese is a relatively new twist, giving these sausage balls a luscious, creamy texture that takes them to the next level. It’s also a game-changer if you’re looking for a way to make the sausage balls softer and richer without overpowering the flavor.

This recipe is also incredibly flexible, which is probably why it’s stood the test of time. You can easily adjust the heat, experiment with cheeses, or even throw in a little something extra, like jalapeños, for added flavor.

Let’s talk ingredients: cheese, spice, and everything nice

Each ingredient in these sausage balls plays a critical role, but what’s nice is that you’ve probably already got most of these in your kitchen!

• Sausage: The key to that signature savory flavor. While hot sausage adds a nice level of heat, feel free to use mild sausage if you’re catering to a more sensitive palate. Want to keep things on the healthier side? Chicken or turkey sausage works like a charm, too.
• Cream cheese: The not-so-secret ingredient that makes these sausage balls extra soft and creamy. Make sure it’s softened before mixing so you can easily combine it with the other ingredients. I’ve also experimented with a lower-fat version, and it works just as well without losing any of the richness.
• Bisquick baking mix: The trusty binder that holds everything together. If you’re out of Bisquick, you can easily make your own by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and a bit of butter. Gluten-free baking mix also works if you’re looking to adapt this recipe.
• Cheddar cheese: Hand-grated is the way to go! Pre-shredded cheese often contains preservatives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating from the block ensures that the cheese melts perfectly into the sausage balls, giving them that gooey, cheesy goodness we all love.

Kitchen gear: what you need (and what you can totally skip)

You don’t need much in terms of equipment for this recipe, which is part of its charm! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is perfect for combining all the ingredients. You’re going to get a little messy while mixing, so make sure your bowl is big enough to handle it.
• Baking sheet: Line it with foil for easy cleanup, and don’t forget to lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step! Cleaning a stuck-on mess is never fun.
• Grater: Hand-grating your cheddar cheese may seem like extra work, but it’s worth it for the melt factor. The pre-packaged stuff just doesn’t compare.
• Spoon or small scoop: You could use your hands to form the balls, but a small cookie scoop makes it a lot easier to get uniform sizes, which helps them cook evenly.

Step-by-step: my foolproof method (and a few hard-learned lessons)

Making these cream cheese sausage balls couldn’t be easier, but there are a few tips I’ve learned along the way that will help you get the perfect batch every time.

1. Mixing it all together: In a large bowl, combine the sausage, softened cream cheese, Bisquick, and cheddar cheese. It’s going to feel pretty dense, so don’t be afraid to use your hands to really get everything combined. Just be sure to wash up before digging in! (Also, I’ve learned the hard way that using an electric mixer can overwork the dough, making the sausage balls a bit tough.)
2. Forming the balls: Grab a small portion of the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Try to keep them around the same size so they bake evenly. This is where a cookie scoop comes in handy!
3. Bake to golden perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Spray it with a bit of non-stick cooking spray, then arrange your sausage balls about an inch apart. They don’t spread much, so you can fit quite a few on one pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about overcooking, start checking them at 15 minutes. Every oven is different, and it’s always better to catch them a little early than to overbake them.

Variations to try (because why not?)

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is! Here are a few fun variations I’ve tried:

• Jalapeño popper sausage balls: Add about 2 tablespoons of chopped pickled jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick. It’s not too much, just enough to make things interesting!
• Gluten-free version: Swap out the Bisquick for a gluten-free baking mix. I’ve tried it with Bob’s Red Mill, and it works like a charm. Just be aware that the texture might be a bit softer.
• Healthier alternative: Replace the regular sausage with ground chicken or turkey. It gives a lighter feel while still being super flavorful. You can also use reduced-fat cream cheese if you’re watching your calorie intake, and the taste is still spot on.
• Cheese swaps: While cheddar is classic, I’ve tried these with pepper jack for extra spice or even gouda for a more mellow, smoky flavor. Both were hits at parties!

How to serve and impress your guests

When it comes to serving these sausage balls, you’ve got options! I like to arrange them on a rustic wooden board with some fun dipping sauces on the side. Ranch, spicy mustard, or even a homemade honey mustard sauce are all great choices. If you want to elevate the presentation, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color.

Pair these sausage balls with a crisp, fresh salad or some roasted vegetables to round out the meal, especially if you’re serving them at brunch. If it’s a party, they pair perfectly with a charcuterie board or as part of a larger appetizer spread.

drinks to pair with these bites

Since these cream cheese sausage balls have a bit of a kick (especially if you go for the spicy sausage or jalapeños), you’ll want something refreshing to sip alongside them. Here are my pairings:

• Iced sweet tea: A Southern classic. The slight sweetness cuts through the richness of the sausage and cheese, making for a perfect pairing.
• Lemonade: If you want something a bit more tart, lemonade works beautifully. The bright citrus contrasts nicely with the savory flavors.
• Sparkling water with a splash of cranberry: For a lighter option, I like to go with sparkling water mixed with a hint of cranberry juice. It’s refreshing and has just the right amount of flavor to complement the dish.

Storing and reheating your sausage balls

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, doesn’t happen often), these sausage balls store and reheat beautifully. Here’s what I recommend:

• Fridge: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. The oven keeps them from getting soggy, unlike the microwave.
• Freezer: You can also freeze these sausage balls before or after baking. If freezing before, just form them into balls and freeze on a baking sheet for an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake for an extra 5-7 minutes. If freezing after baking, reheat them straight from the freezer at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe yields about 30 sausage balls, but it’s easy to scale up or down depending on your crowd. If you’re doubling the recipe, I recommend baking in batches to ensure even cooking. When halving the recipe, just be sure to measure everything carefully—too much Bisquick or cheese can throw off the texture.

A few common hiccups (and how to avoid them!)

• Dry sausage balls: This usually happens if you overbake them or don’t use enough cream cheese. Make sure you’re using the full 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, and check the balls a few minutes before the baking time is up.
• Sausage balls falling apart: If your sausage balls are crumbly, it could be because the mixture wasn’t combined well enough. Get in there with your hands to really mix everything together!
• Soggy bottoms: Make sure your baking sheet is lined with foil and sprayed with non-stick spray. This helps prevent the bottoms from getting soggy or sticking to the pan.

Final thoughts: get creative and make them your own!

These cream cheese sausage balls are one of those recipes that’s almost impossible to mess up. They’re the perfect blend of cheesy, spicy, and creamy goodness—and they’re so easy to customize. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, game day, or just because you’re craving something savory, they’re sure to be a hit. And the best part? You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, and pull them out whenever you need something quick and delicious. Give them a try and make them your own—I promise you won’t regret it!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack, gouda, or even mozzarella would work great in this recipe.
2. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months before baking.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? The best method is to reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. This keeps them crispy without drying them out.
4. Can I make these gluten-free? Definitely! Just swap the Bisquick for a gluten-free baking mix. The texture may be a bit softer, but they’re still delicious.
5. How spicy are these sausage balls? If you use hot sausage, there’s a nice level of heat, but it’s not overwhelming. For a milder version, use regular sausage.

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