Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

Introduction

Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls are the ultimate savory snack, combining the rich, tangy cream cheese with flavorful beef sausage and sharp cheddar cheese. These easy-to-make bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual party, a holiday celebration, or a cozy family get-together. The combination of spices, creamy texture, and a golden, crispy exterior makes these sausage balls irresistible.

I first made these when I was looking for a simple yet flavorful appetizer for a family gathering, and they quickly became a favorite. The kitchen smelled amazing as they baked, and the crispy, cheesy bites were devoured in no time. These sausage balls are versatile and can be customized with different spices or cheese, depending on your preferences.

What’s great about these Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls is how effortlessly they come together. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these savory snacks that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty treat to enjoy, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Holiday gatherings
• Game day snacks
• Family gatherings
• Savory snack lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

Here’s why Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls will become your go-to snack:

• Creamy and Flavorful: The cream cheese adds richness and moisture to the sausage, making each bite melt in your mouth while enhancing the savory flavors.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy, cheesy goodness that perfectly complements the sausage and cream cheese.
• Simple to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is super easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Versatile: These sausage balls can be customized with different spices, cheeses, or even sausage varieties to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a holiday, game day, or casual get-together, these sausage balls are always a hit.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 24-30 balls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-170 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls:

• 1 pound ground beef sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Beef Sausage: Ground beef sausage adds the savory base flavor for the sausage balls. You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference.
• Cream Cheese: The softened cream cheese makes the sausage balls tender and rich, helping to bind everything together while providing a creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the sausage balls.
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika add depth to the flavor profile, making these sausage balls savory and aromatic.
• Flour and Baking Powder: Flour and baking powder create the light, slightly crumbly texture that is characteristic of sausage balls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls:

Prepare the Mixture:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until fully combined. The mixture should be firm but slightly sticky.
3. Form the Balls: Roll the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the balls are evenly spaced, about 2 inches apart.

Bake the Sausage Balls:

4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half—there should be no pink remaining inside.
5. Cool: Let the sausage balls cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a serving platter.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these sausage balls as an appetizer at parties or holiday gatherings, either hot or at room temperature.
• With Dips: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or mustard for added flavor.
• On a Buffet: Place them on a buffet table alongside other finger foods for easy snacking at casual events.
• For Breakfast or Brunch: Pair them with eggs, fresh fruit, or a breakfast casserole for a savory brunch spread.
• As a Snack: These sausage balls make a great mid-day snack, especially when you need a quick, satisfying bite.

Additional Tips for Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

Here are some tips to ensure your Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls turn out perfectly:

• Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, so it incorporates easily into the sausage mixture.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid tough sausage balls. Overmixing can make them dense.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot sausage, and feel free to add extra spices like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Make Ahead: You can make the sausage balls ahead of time. After shaping, refrigerate the uncooked balls for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze the uncooked balls for up to 2 months and bake directly from frozen.
• Check for Doneness: Sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through inside. If they need more time, bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Recipe Variations for Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls:

• Sausage and Bacon: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the sausage mixture for a smoky twist.
• Turkey Sausage: Use ground turkey sausage instead of beef for a leaner version of these sausage balls.
• Cheddar and Jalapeño: Add chopped jalapeños and extra shredded cheddar for a spicy, cheesy kick.
• Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these sausage balls gluten-free.
• Sausage and Spinach: Incorporate cooked spinach into the mixture for added color and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of honey and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy combination.
• Italian Sausage: Use Italian sausage for a herby, garlicky flavor that adds extra depth.
• Veggie Sausage Balls: Use vegetarian sausage for a plant-based version of this recipe.
• Sausage and Sweet Potato: Mix in mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and savory variation.

Freezing and Storage for Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

• Freezing: Sausage balls freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for a few seconds.
• Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls easier:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is necessary for mixing the sausage, cream cheese, and other ingredients together.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
• Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop can help portion the sausage balls evenly and quickly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of ingredients for perfect sausage balls.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack helps the sausage balls cool evenly after baking, keeping the bottoms from getting soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls

1. Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time. Shape them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for up to 2 months before baking.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
   Yes, you can use any type of ground sausage you like, such as turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust the spices accordingly for your preferred flavor.
3. Can I make these sausage balls without cream cheese?
   Cream cheese is essential for the texture and flavor, but you can substitute with sour cream for a tangy alternative.
4. Can I bake these sausage balls from frozen?
   Yes, bake the frozen sausage balls at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Can I add other spices to the sausage balls?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like red pepper flakes, thyme, or even a pinch of curry powder for a unique flavor twist.

Print

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, creamy filling and a crispy golden exterior, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or party food, they will disappear quickly and leave your guests asking for more!

This recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it ideal for everything from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering or a special event, these sausage balls are guaranteed to be the star of the show.

I’d love to see how your Cream Cheese Beef Sausage Balls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!