There’s something magical about bite-sized, cheesy, savory snacks that disappear from the plate in no time. Cheese Sausage Balls are the perfect combination of hearty ground sausage, gooey cheese, and flavorful spices, all baked into a golden, irresistible bite. These tasty morsels are perfect for parties, game-day gatherings, holiday spreads, or even as a quick, satisfying snack.
Whether you’re hosting a large group or just looking to whip up something delicious for your family, cheese sausage balls are a breeze to make and guaranteed to impress. With their simple ingredients and bold flavors, they bring comfort and joy to any table.
Why You’ll Love Cheese Sausage Balls
Cheese Sausage Balls are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of sausage, cheddar cheese, and Rotel tomatoes creates a savory and slightly spicy flavor profile that everyone loves.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These bite-sized snacks work as appetizers, finger foods, or even a breakfast option!
- Easy to Customize: You can tweak the recipe by changing the sausage or cheese, or even adding different spices.
- Quick to Prepare: With only a few simple steps, these sausage balls come together in no time.
Let’s dive into how to make these crowd-pleasers step by step!
Ingredients for Cheese Sausage Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious sausage balls:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground sausage | 1 pound |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 ounces |
| Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained | 1 can (10 ounces) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Biscuit baking mix (e.g., Bisquick) | 2 cups |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Optional: Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish | As desired |
These simple ingredients come together to create a snack that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheese Sausage Balls
1. Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by ensuring all your ingredients are ready to go. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly. This step ensures that the sausage balls won’t become greasy during baking.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and drained Rotel tomatoes. Mix well until the cream cheese is smooth and evenly incorporated with the tomatoes.
4. Add the Sausage and Cheese
Add the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese to the cream cheese mixture. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well-combined.
5. Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the biscuit baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the sausage and cheese mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but firm enough to shape into balls.
6. Form the Sausage Balls
Using a tablespoon or small scoop, take portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1–1.5 inches in diameter. Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each one.
7. Bake to Perfection
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, the internal temperature of the sausage balls should reach 160°F (70°C).
8. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the sausage balls cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Cheese Sausage Balls
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, making the sausage balls creamier.
- Drain the Rotel Properly: Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes and chilies well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can make the sausage balls dense. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Double the Recipe: These sausage balls are so popular that you’ll want to make extra! They store and reheat well.
- Add a Kick: For a spicier version, use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Why This Recipe Works
Cheese Sausage Balls work because they hit all the right flavor notes: savory, cheesy, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced. The cream cheese adds creaminess, while the biscuit baking mix provides structure and a slightly crisp exterior. The Rotel tomatoes and chilies elevate the flavor with a subtle tang and heat, making these sausage balls anything but boring. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize, ensuring you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences.
Nutritional Information for Cheese Sausage Balls
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 24 sausage balls):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 260mg |
What to Serve with Cheese Sausage Balls
Cheese Sausage Balls are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are a few ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo make excellent accompaniments.
- Fresh Veggies: Serve alongside celery and carrot sticks for a balanced snack platter.
- Breakfast Pairing: Add them to a breakfast spread with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and biscuits.
- Game Day Snacks: Pair them with chips, guacamole, and buffalo wings for the ultimate game-day feast.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Cheese Sausage Balls are perfect for meal prep or making in advance. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sausage balls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes to maintain their crispy exterior.
FAQs About Cheese Sausage Balls
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use spicy sausage, Italian sausage, or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free biscuit mix to make these sausage balls suitable for gluten-free diets.
3. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients and refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
4. How do I keep the sausage balls from drying out?
Make sure not to overbake them. Also, using cream cheese helps keep the sausage balls moist and tender.
5. Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Definitely! Try adding diced jalapeños, shredded pepper jack cheese, or chopped bacon for extra flavor.
6. Can I serve these cold?
While they’re best served warm, cheese sausage balls can also be enjoyed at room temperature or cold.
Your Turn to Make Cheese Sausage Balls
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make these delicious Cheese Sausage Balls. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a quick snack, or a hearty breakfast addition, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy, cheesy, and satisfying treat!
Cheese Sausage Balls: A Crowd-Pleasing Snack
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 can 10 ounces Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix e.g., Bisquick
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook Sausage: Brown the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain and let it cool.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and drained Rotel tomatoes until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the sausage, cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Form Balls: Roll the dough into 1–1.5-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve warm.