Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls

Name: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 balls
Ingredients: 1 lb ground sausage; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Highlighted under: Ultimate Comfort Bites

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are a perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a spicy kick from jalapeños. Ideal for parties or as a delicious snack!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:46:20.513Z

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are a delightful twist on the classic appetizer. Combining the rich flavors of sausage with the zesty heat of jalapeños and the creaminess of cheese, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

        Why You'll Love These Sausage Balls
        A perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
Great for game day or any celebration

      

The Perfect Party Snack

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family reunion, or just a casual get-together with friends, these savory bites will disappear quickly. Their delightful blend of flavors and textures ensures that everyone will come back for more, leaving you with nothing but empty plates and happy faces.

Not only are these sausage balls delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main dish alongside some fresh veggies or a zesty dipping sauce. Their finger-food nature makes them easy to share, which is perfect for mingling guests who want to enjoy great flavors without the need for utensils.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of these sausage balls is how customizable they are. If you're not a fan of jalapeños, consider swapping them out for other ingredients like diced bell peppers or even cooked bacon bits for a different flavor profile. You can also adjust the level of spice by including more or less cayenne pepper, making them suitable for all palates.

For those who prefer a cheesy twist, try adding different types of cheese to the mix. Pepper jack cheese can bring a delightful kick, while mozzarella can add a creamy texture. Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to create your unique spin on this classic recipe.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls

1 lb ground sausage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before shaping into balls.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, flour, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Bake the Sausage Balls

Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy mustard.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing these sausage balls is simple. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sausage balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to bake them, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls with a variety of dips to enhance their flavor. A cool ranch dressing or a zesty salsa can balance the spice, while a creamy cheese dip can complement the savory elements beautifully. Prepare a platter with an assortment of dips to cater to different tastes and create an inviting presentation.

For a complete meal experience, serve these sausage balls alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. This not only adds color to your table but also provides a nutritious balance to the rich flavors of the sausage balls. Enjoy them as part of a buffet spread or as a standalone snack during movie nights or casual hangouts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze the sausage balls?

Absolutely! Freeze them raw on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with sausage balls?

These sausage balls pair well with ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or a cheese dip.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.