Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's sure to impress your guests? Look no further than these incredibly simple yet flavourful sausage balls! This cream cheese-enhanced recipe elevates the classic sausage ball to new heights of deliciousness. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or a casual weeknight snack, these homemade sausage balls are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Get ready to experience a delightful combination of savory sausage, tangy cream cheese, and a perfectly crispy exterior. This recipe offers a healthy twist on a beloved classic, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Sausage: Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for removing excess fat, contributing to healthier sausage balls.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If the mixture seems too dry, add the milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s easy to handle.
Step 3: Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. This is a great task to get the kids involved in!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection: Place the sausage balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delicious appetizer or snack! They’re equally satisfying as a quick and easy meal addition.
Tips for the Best Sausage Balls:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can result in tough sausage balls. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Chill the dough (optional): For easier handling, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping the balls. This allows the flavors to meld and makes rolling easier.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or some dried herbs for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use spicy sausage for a kick!
- Cheesy Sausage Balls: Add different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even some crumbled blue cheese for a sophisticated twist.
- Herb-Infused Sausage Balls: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per sausage ball - approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
These delicious and easy-to-make sausage balls are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They are perfect for satisfying your cravings for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly proves that! Enjoy!