Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Name: Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb hot sausage: adds spicy, savory flavor; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: provides moisture and creaminess; 1 1/4 cups Bisquick: binds the mixture and adds fluffy texture; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: gives a rich, cheesy taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a game day classic that gets an ultra-creamy upgrade with one simple addition—cream cheese. This easy-to-make, 4-ingredient appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings, tailgates, or weekend brunches. With the irresistible combination of spicy sausage, rich cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and fluffy biscuit mix, these sausage balls are moist, tender, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re prepping ahead or baking fresh, this recipe is your new go-to.

Why Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Are a Must-Try

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are everything you want in a quick appetizer—savory, cheesy, and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes. Thanks to the cream cheese, these sausage balls are softer and more flavorful than traditional versions that can turn dry. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they hold up well and deliver the perfect balance of spice, richness, and crunch. They’re also ideal for prepping ahead and freezing, making them the ultimate convenience appetizer for busy hosts.

What You’ll Need to Make These Sausage Balls

• Hot Sausage: Brings a bold, spicy kick that balances the creaminess of the cheese
• Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient that makes these sausage balls moist and rich
• Bisquick: A classic baking mix that helps bind everything and adds fluffiness
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty, this cheese adds flavor depth and a gooey texture

Ingredient Swap Ideas for Flexibility

If you’re out of something or cooking for dietary needs, these swaps work beautifully:
• Mild or Sweet Sausage: Keeps it flavorful without the heat
• Turkey Sausage: Leaner with all the savory appeal
• Homemade Bisquick: Blend flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening as a substitute
• Pepper Jack Cheese: For those who love an extra kick
• Vegan Cream Cheese: A dairy-free option that still gives a creamy texture

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients: In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the uncooked hot sausage, softened cream cheese, Bisquick, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully blended.
Shape the Balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Bake: Arrange the sausage balls evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve with dipping sauce.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results

• Avoid Overmixing: Just combine ingredients until mixed to keep the texture light
• Stick with the Ratio: The dough may be sticky—don’t add extra Bisquick or they’ll dry out
• Even Sizes Matter: A cookie scoop ensures uniform size and even baking
• Freezer-Friendly: Form balls and freeze raw; bake from frozen with just a few extra minutes
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Bisquick for a celiac-friendly version

What to Serve with Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Pairing these sausage balls with the right dips and sides makes them even more irresistible:
• Jalapeño Ranch Dressing: Creamy and spicy for an extra punch
• Honey Mustard: Balances the spice with sweetness
• BBQ Sauce: Smoky and tangy, a tailgate favorite
• Maple Syrup: Ideal if you’re serving them for brunch

Add-ons and sides include:
• Fresh fruit skewers
• Mini quiches
• Deviled eggs
• Buttery biscuits

These sausage balls are also excellent tucked into a biscuit sandwich or paired with scrambled eggs for breakfast.

Great for Every Occasion — Not Just Game Day

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a versatile addition to your appetizer rotation. Here’s where they shine:
• Holiday Parties: Serve with festive dips for an easy crowd-pleaser
• Brunch Buffets: Perfectly portable and pair well with eggs or muffins
• Potlucks & Showers: Always a hit and easy to transport
• Meal Prep: Make ahead and freeze for grab-and-bake convenience
• Super Bowl Parties: No appetizer spread is complete without them

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are more than just a party snack — they’re the kind of recipe that people remember and request again and again. With only four ingredients, a quick prep time, and a flavor that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, they’re a must-have in any appetizer rotation. Whether you’re hosting a tailgate, throwing a holiday brunch, or simply craving something savory and satisfying, this easy recipe delivers every time. Keep a batch in the freezer for quick entertaining or weeknight snacking — once you try them, you’ll never go back to the old way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

How do I keep Cream Cheese Sausage Balls from going flat?

If your sausage balls flatten during baking, it’s usually due to overly warm ingredients or overmixing. To avoid this, chill the shaped balls in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before baking. Using a cookie scoop helps ensure even sizing and firm shaping, which prevents spreading in the oven.

Can I prepare Cream Cheese Sausage Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are perfect for prepping ahead. You can form them into balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen — just add 3–5 minutes to the cook time.

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes, simply substitute regular Bisquick with a certified gluten-free Bisquick mix. Make sure your sausage and cream cheese are also gluten-free (check labels for hidden gluten). With this simple swap, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls without sacrificing flavor or texture.

More Relevant Recipes

Easy Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe: A classic take on the beloved appetizer, these sausage balls are packed with cheesy goodness and a savory sausage punch. Perfectly baked for golden, tender bites, they’re an ideal match for fans of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls looking for a simpler variation.
Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls: This festive cheese ball recipe blends cream cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts for a sweet-savory combo. It’s a perfect make-ahead appetizer that echoes the creamy base of sausage balls with a seasonal twist.
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites: Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these cheesy bites bring together Parmesan and mozzarella for a party-perfect finger food. Ideal for entertaining, they offer a similar cheesy, indulgent flavor profile to Cream Cheese Sausage Balls.