Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these sausage balls will become a favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under 30 minutes.
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Savory and cheesy. The perfect texture combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves sausage balls.
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Budget-friendly. Sausage, cream cheese, and baking mix are inexpensive.
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Perfect for parties, game days, and gatherings.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 24 sausage balls
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1 pound (16 ounces) raw pork breakfast sausage, mild or hot
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
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2 cups (about 8 ounces) baking mix (such as Bisquick or similar all-purpose baking mix)
Ingredient Notes
Pork breakfast sausage: Use raw pork breakfast sausage. Mild or hot both work.
Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese. Soften it to room temperature.
Baking mix: Use Bisquick or similar all-purpose baking mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and lightly coat with nonstick spray or oil.
Step 2: Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and raw pork sausage. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to work them together until the mixture looks mostly uniform.
Step 3: Add the Baking Mix
Sprinkle the baking mix over the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Gently knead and fold until everything is thoroughly combined and no dry pockets remain.
Step 4: Roll into Balls
Pinch off a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 to 1 1/4 inches in diameter. Place each sausage ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the sausage balls are golden brown, feel firm to the touch, and the sausage is cooked through.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the sausage balls rest on the pan for about 3 to 5 minutes. Serve warm.
How to Serve Sausage Balls
These savory, cheesy bites are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Dipping Sauce: Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara.
With a Salad: Add to a party platter.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Hot Sauce: Add a dash of heat.
With Cheese: Serve with extra cheese on the side.
Variations & Tips
Make Them Spicy: Use hot breakfast sausage.
Make Them with Turkey: Substitute turkey sausage.
Make Them with Cheddar: Add shredded cheddar to the mixture.
Make Them with Jalapeños: Add diced jalapeños.
Make Them with Onion: Add finely chopped onion.
Make Them with Garlic: Add garlic powder.
Make Them with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baking mix.
Make Them in an Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Soften the cream cheese. This ensures even mixing.
Do not overmix. This keeps the sausage balls tender.
Do not overcrowd the pan. Leave space between the balls.
Let them rest before serving. This allows them to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different sausage?
Yes. Turkey or chicken sausage can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Neufchâtel or vegan cream cheese can be used.
Can I use a different baking mix?
Yes. Any all-purpose baking mix works.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my mixture too sticky?
The cream cheese was too warm. Chill the mixture.
Why are my sausage balls dry?
They were overbaked. Check at 18 minutes.
Can I add more seasoning?
Yes. Add garlic powder or paprika.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any baking sheet works.
The Beauty of Sausage Balls
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, savory sausage ball. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. These cream cheese sausage balls are a celebration of all those things.
Keep sausage in your freezer. Keep cream cheese in your fridge. Keep baking mix in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Rest Time: 3–5 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Yield: 24 sausage balls