Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe
Introduction:
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful, savory snack that’s perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or as an easy appetizer for any occasion. These bite-sized treats are made with a blend of sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, resulting in a rich, flavorful, and slightly cheesy ball that’s baked to perfection. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, making them ideal for busy cooks who want a delicious snack in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. - Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well incorporated. This will be a bit sticky due to the cream cheese, but that’s okay! In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the sausage mixture, mixing until combined. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough a little to ensure everything is mixed evenly. - Form the Sausage Balls:
Scoop about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of the sausage mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process until all the dough has been formed into balls. Make sure to space them about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet to allow for even baking. - Bake the Sausage Balls:
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The sausage should be fully cooked, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve warm, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or a creamy mustard sauce!
History:
Sausage balls are a popular Southern dish in the United States, commonly served at holiday gatherings, tailgates, and parties. The addition of cream cheese to the traditional sausage ball recipe adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor, making the dish even more irresistible. The tradition of making sausage balls likely evolved as home cooks sought to combine common ingredients—like sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix—into an easy, crowd-pleasing snack. Cream cheese has become a popular ingredient in many Southern appetizers, contributing to the creamy and comforting texture of the sausage balls.
Benefits:
- High in Protein: The combination of sausage and cheese provides a solid amount of protein, making these sausage balls a filling snack or appetizer.
- No Special Equipment Needed: No fancy kitchen tools are required; all you need is a mixing bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavor of the sausage balls by using different types of cheese (e.g., mozzarella or pepper jack) or adding herbs and spices to the mixture.
- Perfect for Parties: These bite-sized snacks are perfect for serving a crowd and are sure to be a hit at any event.
Nutrition (per sausage ball, approximately):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a savory and delicious snack that’s easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients, these cheesy, meaty, and flavorful bites are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just craving a comforting treat, these sausage balls will quickly become a favorite!
Lovers of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls will appreciate:
- The combination of creamy, cheesy flavors with the savory sausage.
- How simple they are to make and how quickly they come together.
- The versatility of these sausage balls, which can be customized to suit different tastes or served with a variety of dipping sauces.
Enjoy your homemade Cream Cheese Sausage Balls at your next party or event!
