Perfect Sausage Ball Recipe with Cream Cheese

The classic sausage ball recipe with cream cheese combines 1 pound of pork sausage, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, and 2 cups of biscuit mix to create savory, bite-sized appetizers. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown for perfect party snacks that stay moist and flavorful.

Creating the perfect sausage ball recipe with cream cheese requires understanding the balance between savory sausage, tangy cream cheese, and the binding biscuit mix. This beloved Southern-inspired appetizer has become a staple at gatherings nationwide due to its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor profile. The cream cheese addition transforms traditional sausage balls by adding moisture and a subtle richness that prevents dryness during baking.

Essential Ingredients for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

The magic of this sausage ball recipe with cream cheese lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component serves a specific purpose in creating the ideal texture and flavor:

Ingredient	Amount	Key Function
Ground pork sausage	1 pound	Provides savory base flavor and texture
Cream cheese, softened	8 ounces	Adds moisture and tangy richness
Self-rising biscuit mix	2 cups	Binds ingredients and creates light texture
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon	Enhances savory notes
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)	1/2 cup	Adds extra cheesiness and visual appeal

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for flawless sausage balls with cream cheese every time:

1. Prepare ingredients: Remove cream cheese from refrigerator 30 minutes before starting to ensure proper softening. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until no longer pink, breaking into small pieces. Drain excess grease and let cool for 10 minutes.
3. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled sausage, softened cream cheese, biscuit mix, and seasonings. Stir until fully incorporated and no streaks of cream cheese remain.
4. Form balls: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion mixture and roll between palms to form 1-inch balls. For easier handling, lightly coat hands with cooking spray.
5. Bake: Arrange balls on prepared baking sheet with 1-inch spacing. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Cool: Let rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack. This allows structure to set properly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Elevate your sausage ball recipe with cream cheese using these professional techniques:

• Temperature matters: Ensure cream cheese is properly softened but not melted. Cold cream cheese won't incorporate well, while melted cream cheese creates greasy balls.
• Grease management: Thoroughly drain cooked sausage to prevent excess grease from seeping into the balls during baking.
• Uniform sizing: Use a #60 cookie scoop (1 tablespoon capacity) for consistent sizing, which ensures even baking.
• Flavor variations: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños for spicy sausage balls with cream cheese, or substitute Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Texture control: For crispier exteriors, slightly flatten balls before baking. For softer texture, keep them perfectly round.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

This sausage ball recipe with cream cheese offers excellent flexibility for meal planning:

• Refrigeration: Store cooled sausage balls in airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
• Freezing uncooked: Arrange formed balls on parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to freezer bag. Bake frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to cooking time.
• Freezing cooked: Cool completely, then freeze in single layer before transferring to freezer container. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 15-18 minutes.
• Make-ahead assembly: Mix ingredients (except shaping) up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in refrigerator, then shape and bake when needed.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Sausage balls with cream cheese shine as versatile appetizers that complement various occasions:

• Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or spicy brown mustard for dipping
• Pair with fresh fruit platters to balance the richness
• Include on breakfast buffets alongside scrambled eggs and fresh pastries
• Offer as game day snacks with craft beers or mimosas
• Create a brunch station with mini sausage balls, quiches, and fruit salad

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Address these frequent challenges with sausage ball recipe with cream cheese:

• Dry texture: Increase cream cheese by 2 ounces or add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to the mixture.
• Greasy results: Ensure thorough draining of sausage and avoid overmixing, which can release more fat.
• Flat balls: Chill mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping to help maintain round shape during baking.
• Uneven cooking: Rotate baking sheet halfway through cooking time for consistent browning.
• Bland flavor: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce to enhance savory notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use turkey sausage in my sausage ball recipe with cream cheese?

Yes, turkey sausage works well as a leaner alternative in sausage balls with cream cheese. Use 93% lean ground turkey sausage and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to maintain moisture since turkey has less natural fat than pork sausage.

How do I prevent my cream cheese sausage balls from falling apart?

To prevent crumbling, ensure proper ingredient ratios (1:1:2 for sausage:cream cheese:biscuit mix), thoroughly drain cooked sausage, and chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping. The biscuit mix must be fresh for optimal binding properties.

What's the best way to reheat sausage balls with cream cheese?

Reheat sausage balls with cream cheese in a 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy. Place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to maintain crisp edges while reheating evenly throughout.

Can I make sausage balls with cream cheese gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the biscuit mix with 1 cup almond flour, 1/2 cup tapioca starch, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum. You may need to add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to achieve proper consistency for gluten-free sausage balls with cream cheese.

How many sausage balls does this recipe yield?

This standard sausage ball recipe with cream cheese yields approximately 36-40 one-inch balls, depending on how tightly you pack the mixture. For larger gatherings, simply double the recipe while maintaining the same ingredient ratios for consistent results.