Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls

Name: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 balls
Ingredients: 1 pound ground sausage; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Celebration Feast Ideas

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:31:20.103Z

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are inspired by the classic appetizer, bringing together the flavors of spicy jalapeños and cheesy goodness. Perfect for game day or any gathering, they're always a hit!

        Why You'll Love These Sausage Balls
        The perfect balance of spice and creaminess
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
Great for parties, game nights, or as a snack

      

A Flavorful Combination

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls offer a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of ground sausage and creamy cheeses creates a rich base, while the jalapeños add the perfect amount of heat. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings for something savory but also brings a unique twist to traditional sausage balls, making them stand out at any gathering.

The addition of spices like garlic powder and onion powder enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring that each bite is packed with deliciousness. The optional cayenne pepper can elevate the heat level for those who enjoy a little extra kick. This balance of flavor and spice makes these sausage balls an unforgettable treat.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a party, gearing up for game day, or simply looking for a tasty snack, these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are an excellent choice. They are easy to prepare and bake, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum satisfaction. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for mingling, allowing guests to enjoy them without interrupting conversations.

These sausage balls also store well, making them a great make-ahead option. Prepare a batch in advance, and simply reheat them when you're ready to serve. Their versatility means they can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls

1 pound ground sausage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before shaping into balls.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients

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

Shape the Balls

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

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

These sausage balls are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Sausage Balls

For the best texture and flavor, opt for high-quality ground sausage. A blend of pork sausage with a bit of spice will elevate your sausage balls. Additionally, ensure that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to allow for easy mixing. This will help create a creamy, cohesive mixture that holds its shape while baking.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize your sausage balls. Pepper jack cheese can add an extra layer of heat and flavor, while mozzarella will give a milder taste and gooey texture. Mixing cheeses can create a delightful blend that will surprise your guests.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the experience. Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo can complement the flavors beautifully. Offering a selection of sauces allows guests to personalize their bites and adds an interactive element to your gathering.

For a more festive presentation, arrange the sausage balls on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or slices of jalapeños. This not only makes them visually appealing but also hints at the delicious flavors to come. Your guests will be eager to dive into these tasty treats!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

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

→ What can I use instead of sausage?

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

→ Can I freeze these sausage balls?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ How spicy are these sausage balls?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or fewer jalapeños or omitting the cayenne pepper.