If you’re on the hunt for a savory, comforting bite that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe. These golden, cheesy morsels combine the spicy kick of hot sausage with the tender crumb of honey cornbread, all held together by creamy cheese. Whether you’re making snacks for a crowd or craving a cozy appetizer, these sausage balls bring the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the spicy sausage packs the heat and richness, the honey cornbread mix adds a tender, slightly sweet crumb, the cream cheese binds everything with luscious creaminess, and the sharp cheddar cheese brings that irresistible cheesy punch and color.
- 1 lb hot sausage: Use uncooked sausage with plenty of seasoning to infuse the balls with bold flavor.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds moisture and helps bind the mixture, preventing dryness.
- 1 (15-oz) box Honey Cornbread & Muffin Mix: This adds that sweet, crumbly texture that balances the savory sausage beautifully.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts perfectly, contributing gooeyness and depth.
How to Make Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start off by setting your oven to 400ºF. A hot oven ensures the sausage balls turn delightfully golden brown on the outside while staying tender and flavorful inside.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
Next, mix the sausage, softened cream cheese, honey cornbread mix, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is thoroughly incorporated. If you have a stand mixer, using the dough hook works wonders for making this step quick and easy. The mixture should be thick but pliable enough to shape into balls.
Step 3: Shape the Sausage Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Uniform size helps them cook evenly and look perfectly bite-sized. Arrange them on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drippings during baking.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake your sausage balls for 18 to 22 minutes until they develop a rich, browned crust. This time frame allows the sausage to cook through completely while maintaining the softness inside without drying out.
How to Serve Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing these sausage balls elevates their appeal and taste. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives over the warm balls for a pop of color and freshness. For an extra zing, offer a side of spicy mustard or creamy ranch dip as a delightful complement.
Side Dishes
Cornbread sausage balls shine on their own but pair beautifully with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or even a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. For a brunch setting, consider serving them alongside scrambled eggs or a light fruit salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family celebrations, present your Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe in fun ways: stack them on decorative skewers with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, or display them in rustic bread bowls paired with dipping sauces. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser wherever you bring them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them moist and flavorful, ready for snacking or reheating anytime in the week.
Freezing
This Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe actually freezes beautifully. Arrange the uncooked or cooked balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for 2 to 3 months, perfect for spontaneous gatherings or meal prep.
Reheating
To reheat, pop sausage balls in the oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30 to 45 seconds. This brings back their crispy exterior and melty, cheesy interior without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use mild sausage instead of hot sausage?
Absolutely! Mild sausage will give you a gentler flavor without the spicy kick. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for some heat if you prefer.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, look for a gluten-free cornbread muffin mix as a substitute. Just be sure all other ingredients you use are gluten-free to keep the recipe safe for sensitive eaters.
Can I make the mixture ahead and bake later?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage ball mixture, shape the balls, and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save time on a busy day without affecting the flavor or texture.
What size should the balls be for optimal baking?
One-inch diameter balls are ideal for this recipe. They cook evenly and make perfect bite-sized snacks that are easy to serve and enjoy.
Are these sausage balls good for breakfast?
Definitely! They are hearty, flavorful, and pair wonderfully with eggs or fresh fruit, making them an excellent savory breakfast treat or brunch addition.
Final Thoughts
This Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like an instant family favorite. Whether you’re serving them at holidays, game days, or simply craving a cozy, cheesy snack, these sausage balls deliver unbeatable flavor and comfort. I encourage you to whip up a batch and share the joy that happens when simple ingredients come together so beautifully in one dish.
Print
Cornbread Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 33-37 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 dozen
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cornbread Sausage Balls are a savory appetizer perfect for parties or brunch. Made with hot sausage, creamy cheese, and a sweet cornbread mix, they’re baked to golden perfection, offering a delightful combination of spicy, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot sausage, uncooked
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (15-oz) box Honey Cornbread & Muffin Mix
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the sausage balls evenly and create a crispy exterior.
- Mix ingredients: Combine the hot sausage, softened cream cheese, cornbread mix, and shredded cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl. Using a KitchenAid mixer with a dough hook attachment is ideal, but you can also mix by hand until everything is well incorporated.
- Form the balls: Using a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll each scoop into 1-inch balls. This helps ensure uniform size for even cooking. Place the balls on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake until golden: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Remove them when they have a golden crust and serve warm.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by using mild sausage instead of hot, or adding cayenne pepper for more heat.
- These sausage balls are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a crispy finish.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cornbread mix.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to help evenly incorporate it into the mixture.
