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 diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are a delicious, flavor-packed appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the savory goodness of sausage and cheese.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:30:20.965Z

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are the perfect party snack! Combining the classic flavors of jalapeño poppers with sausage, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of spicy and savory in each bite.
Easy to make and great for parties or game days.
Cheesy and satisfying, they pair well with your favorite dipping sauces.

      

A Flavor Explosion

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls deliver a delightful explosion of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of ground sausage, creamy cheeses, and zesty jalapeños creates a savory treat that's perfect for any occasion. Each bite is a harmonious balance of spice and richness, making them hard to resist.

These sausage balls are not just appetizers; they are a celebration of flavors that can elevate any gathering. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a festive party, these delectable bites will impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls is their versatility. They make a fantastic addition to game day spreads, holiday parties, or even a cozy movie night at home. Their finger-food nature means they’re easy to share and enjoy with friends and family, ensuring everyone has a chance to indulge.

Moreover, these sausage balls are incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. This convenience makes them an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Dipping Delight

To enhance your experience, consider pairing these spicy bites with your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce can complement the flavors beautifully. These sauces not only add an extra layer of taste but also provide a fun interactive element to your appetizer spread.

Experimenting with different dips can also bring out unique flavor profiles. For instance, a creamy avocado dip can balance the heat of the jalapeños, while a zesty salsa can elevate the overall taste. Don't hesitate to explore various combinations to find your perfect match!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

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 diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure you have everything ready before moving to the next step!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°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, jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Form the Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

These delicious sausage balls are best served warm!

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), storing them is simple. Allow the sausage balls to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, maintaining their flavor and texture for your next snack craving.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating is a breeze. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness and ensure they're as delicious as when they were first made.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by using different types of peppers or adding more jalapeños. If you're looking for a milder version, consider removing the seeds from the jalapeños or substituting them with bell peppers.

Additionally, you can mix in other ingredients to suit your taste. Add some crumbled bacon for an extra savory punch, or incorporate herbs like cilantro or chives for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a canvas for your culinary creativity!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, form the balls, and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these sausage balls?

Creamy ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a simple ketchup work great!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.