Sausage Cheese Balls
Sausage cheese balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that everyone loves. They are perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun treat at home. With their cheesy goodness and savory sausage flavor, these bite-sized snacks are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make sausage cheese balls? First, they are simple and quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, they combine the rich taste of sausage and cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser. Finally, you can enjoy them warm right out of the oven or save them for later, making them a flexible option for any occasion.
How to Make Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained well
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese until well mixed.
- Stir in the drained tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Sausage Cheese Balls
Sausage cheese balls are best served warm. You can enjoy them alone or with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or salsa. They make a great appetizer or snack for any gathering, so be ready to share!
How to Store Sausage Cheese Balls
To store leftovers, place the sausage cheese balls in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Sausage Cheese Balls
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor.
- Add some chopped herbs or spices for an extra kick.
Variation
For a spicier version, try adding diced jalapeños or using spicy sausage. You can also make these gluten-free by using a gluten-free baking mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
A: Yes, turkey sausage works well and will make the dish a bit lighter.
Q: How can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the mixture, roll them into balls, and then refrigerate or freeze them before baking.
Q: Can I bake these cheese balls without parchment paper?
A: Yes, you can bake them on a greased baking sheet if you don’t have parchment paper. Just make sure to watch them closely to prevent sticking.
Enjoy making and sharing these tasty sausage cheese balls!
Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage and softened cream cheese until well mixed.
- Stir in the drained tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
