Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe

Ground sausage: This is the main protein component, providing a savory and flavorful base for the sausage balls.

Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a creamy texture and richness to the mixture.

Baking mix: A pre-made mix like Bisquick helps bind the ingredients together and gives structure to the sausage balls.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the sausage perfectly.

When mixing the ground sausage and cream cheese, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature. This will make it easier to blend and create a smoother mixture. Additionally, using your hands to combine the ingredients can help achieve a more uniform texture, ensuring that the baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of sausage.

• cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess while being lower in fat.

• baking mix - Substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder: Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt to create a homemade baking mix.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: Mozzarella offers a milder flavor and melts well, making it a suitable alternative.

• To keep your cream cheese sausage balls fresh and tasty, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture.

• If you want to enjoy these savory bites later, freezing is a great option. Start by arranging the cooled sausage balls on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they are not touching each other to prevent sticking. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the sausage balls are firm.

• Once the sausage balls are frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen sausage balls, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. There's no need to thaw them beforehand. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are heated through and golden brown.

• For a quick reheating option, you can also use the microwave. Place a few sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause them to become dry.

• To add a little twist, consider serving your reheated cream cheese sausage balls with a dipping sauce. A tangy mustard dip or a creamy ranch dressing can complement their flavors beautifully.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior and soft interior.

• Microwave Method: Place the sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly. This method is quick but may result in a slightly softer texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method will help retain their crispy texture.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the sausage balls in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are warmed through. This method adds a bit of extra flavor from the oil or butter.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-12 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method is convenient for small batches and helps maintain their texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the sausage balls at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for placing the sausage balls to bake evenly.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the ground sausage, cream cheese, baking mix, and shredded cheddar cheese.

• Mixing spoon: Helps in thoroughly blending the ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the baking mix and shredded cheddar cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities if needed.

• Hands: Essential for rolling the mixture into 1-inch balls.

• Cooling rack: Allows the sausage balls to cool slightly after baking, ensuring they don't become soggy.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Soften the cream cheese and shred the cheddar cheese the night before to save time.

Use a mixer: Combine the ground sausage and cream cheese using a stand mixer for faster blending.

Pre-measure baking mix: Measure out the baking mix in advance to streamline the mixing process.

Batch rolling: Roll the sausage balls in batches to speed up the preparation.

Line baking sheet: Use parchment paper to reduce cleanup time.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while mixing ingredients to save time.