Introduction
Gather around, friends! If you’re looking for a quick and utterly delicious appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further than these 3-Ingredient Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. They’re savory, cheesy, and oh-so-easy to make. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in, these little bites explode with flavor and are sure to be a hit. Plus, with just three simple ingredients, they come together in a snap!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (16 ounces) raw pork breakfast sausage, mild or hot
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups (about 8 ounces) baking mix (such as Bisquick or similar all-purpose baking mix)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 sausage balls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then lightly coat the foil with nonstick spray or a thin film of oil to help prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and raw pork sausage. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to work them together until the mixture looks mostly uniform; a few streaks are fine at this stage.
- Sprinkle the baking mix over the sausage and cream cheese mixture. Use your hands to gently knead and fold the baking mix in until everything is thoroughly combined, and no dry pockets of mix remain. The mixture will be thick and slightly tacky but should hold together when pressed.
- Pinch off a small amount of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a ball about 1 to 1 1/4 inches in diameter (roughly 1 heaping tablespoon each). Place each sausage ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even browning.
- Once all the mixture is rolled, transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside, feel firm to the touch, and the sausage is cooked through.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the sausage balls rest on the foil-lined sheet for about 3 to 5 minutes. Serve warm directly from the pan or transfer to a platter.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider using spicy sausage or adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mixture. These sausage balls can be frozen after baking; simply reheat them in the oven for 10-15 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy another batch!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe beautifully showcases the technique of mixing and kneading to achieve a cohesive dough-like consistency without overly working the ingredients. Properly mixing ensures that each bite has a balanced flavor of creamy cheese and savory sausage!
FAQ
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, roll it into balls, and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, turkey sausage works wonderfully in this recipe and makes for a lighter option.
How do I know when they are done?
The sausage balls should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple, mouthwatering recipe for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls that’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. Whether for a snack, an appetizer, or a party platter, these little bites are packed with flavor and just the right amount of creaminess. Enjoy every delicious bite!