Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Introduction

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a beloved Southern appetizer known for their irresistible blend of savory sausage, fluffy biscuit texture, and creamy richness. Warm, hearty, and satisfying, they make the perfect bite-sized snack for gatherings, holiday parties, potlucks, or easy weekend baking.

Origin

These sausage balls trace their roots back to mid-century American home cooking, especially in the South, where Bisquick was a pantry staple. Families discovered that mixing baking mix with sausage and cheese created a quick, comforting, and inexpensive treat. The addition of cream cheese is a modern twist that adds extra moisture and decadence.

Cultural Significance

In Southern households, sausage balls are a symbol of hospitality and communal gathering. They often appear during Christmas, Thanksgiving, bridal showers, and tailgating events. Their simplicity and comfort connect generations—grandparents teaching children how to roll them, while modern cooks add new variations.

Ingredients (Quantity)

  • 1 pound hot pork sausage
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Additions

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
  • ½ cup shredded pepper jack for extra spice
  • A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for aroma

Tips for Success

  • Use softened cream cheese to ensure smooth mixing and a tender texture.
  • Cold hands or gloves help keep the sausage mixture from sticking while rolling.
  • Don’t overmix—just combine until the dough holds together.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
  • Bake immediately after forming the balls for the best rise and texture.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Freeze formed balls and bake straight from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a stand mixer or large bowl, mix together 1 pound hot pork sausage and 8 oz cream cheese until fully combined.
  3. Add 2 cups Bisquick baking mix and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the mixture is uniform.
  5. Roll the mixture into balls about 1 to 1½ inches in size and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the sausage balls are slightly golden and cooked through.
  7. Let cool for 3–5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Description

These Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are tender, cheesy, and savory with a satisfying crisp edge. The cream cheese makes them softer and richer than traditional sausage balls, while the cheddar adds gooey pockets of flavor. They’re bite-sized comfort food at its finest.

Nutritional Information (approx. per sausage ball; varies by size)

  • Calories: 90–110
  • Protein: 4–5g
  • Fat: 7–8g
  • Carbohydrates: 3–4g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Sodium: Moderate to high, depending on sausage

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls offer nostalgic comfort with a creamy, modern twist. They’re effortless, crowd-pleasing, and versatile—perfect for parties, snacks, or breakfast bites.

Recommendation

Serve these warm with honey mustard, ranch, spicy aioli, or even a sweet pepper jelly for a beautiful contrast. For larger gatherings, double the recipe—they disappear quickly!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While indulgent, these sausage balls can still fit into a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully. Pair them with fresh fruit, a crisp salad, or lean protein to create a satisfying and wholesome spread. Healthful indulgence is all about enjoying your favorite flavors in a way that nourishes both body and spirit.

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