Easy Sausage Balls Recipe with Cream Cheese (3-Ingredient Appetizer!)
Need a last-minute party snack that everyone will devour? These sausage balls are your new go-to! With just 5 simple ingredients—including cream cheese for extra richness and hot sausage for a kick—this recipe comes together in minutes. Bake them until golden, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear! (P.S. They’re freezer-friendly too!)
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot sausage (or mild, if preferred)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups Bisquick mix
- Hot sauce (to taste, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a cast iron pan in the oven to preheat as well. (Optional: You can lightly grease the cast iron pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.)
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, butter, and Bisquick. Add hot sauce if using. Mix until fully combined (use your hands or a stand mixer).
- Form Balls: Carefully remove the hot cast iron pan from the oven. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the hot cast iron pan, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then serve warm with ranch, honey mustard, or extra hot sauce!
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Soften the cream cheese and butter first for easier mixing.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion the balls evenly.
- Freeze for later: Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen (add 2-3 extra minutes).
- Swap the hot sausage for mild or try pepper jack cheese for extra spice!
FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep the dough, form the balls, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Why are my sausage balls dry?
A: Overmixing the dough can make them dense. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
Q: Can I use a different meat?
A: Ground turkey or chicken sausage works, but add 1 tsp paprika or chili powder for flavor.
Conclusion
These sausage balls are the ultimate easy appetizer—cheesy, savory, and irresistibly addictive. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or even breakfast! Give them a try and tag us in your photos. 😊
