The key to these sausage balls lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The mix of hot and mild sausage adds the perfect balance of spice, while the sharp cheddar and Colby/Monterey cheese deliver a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor. The cream cheese not only helps to bind the ingredients together but also ensures the sausage balls stay moist and tender, preventing them from drying out during baking. Grated Parmesan brings a delightful umami flavor, and the beaten egg provides just the right amount of binding power to keep everything intact.
Ingredients:
- ½ package hot sausage (about 8 oz)
- ½ package mild sausage (about 8 oz)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Colby/Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to heat up while you prepare the sausage balls. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot sausage, mild sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Colby/Monterey cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together using your hands or a sturdy spatula. Make sure to break up the sausage and cheese so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the sausage mixture. The cream cheese will give the sausage balls a moist and tender texture. Continue mixing until the cream cheese is well incorporated throughout the mixture. The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky but still easy to work with.
- Mix in the Egg: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Pour the beaten egg into the sausage mixture and fold it in. The egg will help bind the ingredients together and ensure that the sausage balls hold their shape during baking.
- Shape the Sausage Balls: Using your hands, roll the sausage mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake the Sausage Balls: Once all the sausage balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the sausage balls should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sausage balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own, or you can serve them with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
