Classic Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These classic cream cheese sausage balls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or breakfast item, perfect for parties or a casual meal. They are savory, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb bulk breakfast sausage hot or mild
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Seasonings
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and bulk breakfast sausage, mixing thoroughly until evenly distributed with no lumps.
- Add the Bisquick baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and any optional seasonings to the mixture.
- Continue mixing by hand until all ingredients are well combined and form a cohesive dough.
Forming and Baking
- Roll small portions (1 to 1.5 inches in diameter or a heaping tablespoon) into compact balls and space them an inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Serving
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving; they are best enjoyed warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of dried sage to the mixture. These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and reheated gently in the oven or microwave. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.