Say goodbye to dry, crumbly sausage balls forever. These Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese are a total game-changer—incredibly moist, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and bursting with savory flavor. The secret? A generous addition of cream cheese that transforms this classic appetizer from good to absolutely unforgettable.
Every bite is rich, satisfying, and packed with that perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and savory sausage. These aren’t the sausage balls you remember from potlucks past—they’re better, softer, and so addictive you’ll find yourself sneaking extras from the pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The cream cheese ensures these bite-sized appetizers stay moist and tender, unlike traditional recipes that can turn dry and mealy. It’s the moisture miracle that makes all the difference in texture.
Cream cheese adds a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage. It mellows the meat’s intensity while adding a luxurious, almost creamy interior that feels indulgent with every bite.
Even people who think they don’t like sausage balls love this version. The cream cheese transforms skeptics into believers—it’s that good.
Ingredients
Ground Pork Sausage: Use a hot or mild breakfast sausage like Jimmy Dean, depending on your heat preference. The quality of your sausage makes a real difference in the final flavor.
Cream Cheese: Softened block cream cheese is the secret weapon for moisture. It creates that tender, almost fluffy texture that keeps these sausage balls from ever being dry.
Bisquick: The standard baking mix binder that holds everything together. It provides structure without weighing down the delicate, moist texture the cream cheese creates.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cuts through the richness of the cream cheese with a punch of tangy, savory flavor. The sharpness is essential for balance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cream Ingredients: In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl), beat the softened cream cheese and sausage together until fully combined and smooth. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the Bisquick and shredded cheddar cheese to the sausage mixture. Mix on low speed until a cohesive dough forms—it should be slightly sticky but workable.
- Scoop: Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to form uniform 1-inch balls. Consistency is key for even baking.
- Bake: Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool: Let them rest on the pan for 5 minutes before serving to set slightly. This helps them hold their shape when you transfer them to a platter.
Tips for Success
Soften the Cream Cheese: If the cream cheese is cold, you’ll end up with lumps throughout your sausage balls. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave it for 15 seconds if you’re in a hurry.
Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that absorb moisture and can make the balls dry. Grate your own cheddar for the moistest, most tender results.
Stand Mixer: This dough is thick and can be tough to mix by hand. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment saves your arm muscles and ensures everything is evenly incorporated.
Don’t Overbake: Pull them from the oven as soon as they’re golden. Overbaking is the enemy of moisture, and these are all about that tender, juicy interior.
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese Variations
Herbed: Add a tablespoon of dried parsley or fresh chives for color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor. The green flecks also make them look more elegant.
Spicy Cream: Use a spicy breakfast sausage or add a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mixture for heat lovers. The cream cheese actually balances the spice beautifully.
Garlic Lover’s: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or roasted garlic for a savory kick that deepens the flavor profile. It pairs wonderfully with the tangy cream cheese.
Everything Bagel: Roll the balls in everything bagel seasoning before baking for a fun brunch twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a breakfast side with fluffy scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. They’re hearty enough to keep everyone satisfied all morning long.
They’re the perfect appetizer with a honey mustard dipping sauce. The sweet-tangy sauce complements the savory richness beautifully and adds another layer of flavor.
These shine on holiday brunch spreads alongside quiche, fruit salad, and mimosas. They’re elegant enough for special occasions but easy enough for casual gatherings.
FAQs
Why are my sausage balls flat?
The mixture might have been too warm, causing the fat to melt out before the structure sets. Chill the shaped balls in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and warm, tender interior.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Absolutely! Make the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. This actually makes the dough easier to work with and can deepen the flavors slightly.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese, you’ll never go back to the original recipe. They’re tender, flavorful, and impossible to eat just one of—trust us, we’ve tried. That cream cheese makes them so irresistibly moist and rich that they practically melt in your mouth.
This is the recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds, and the recipe itself). The secret ingredient really does make all the difference, transforming a simple appetizer into something truly special.
Save this recipe now and get ready to become the sausage ball legend at every gathering. These aren’t just better than traditional sausage balls—they’re in a league of their own!
The Best Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese (So Moist!)
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- stand mixer or mixing bowl
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork breakfast sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sausage together until fully combined.
- Gradually add Bisquick and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until a dough forms, avoiding overmixing.
- Use a tablespoon or scoop to form 1-inch balls. Roll smooth with your hands.
- Arrange on baking sheet and bake 15–18 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving to help them set.