Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors with these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls, a delicious twist on a classic appetizer.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-09T20:18:32.500Z

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are the ultimate party snack! Combining the heat of jalapeños with savory sausage and a cheesy interior, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why You'll Love These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls

  • Bursting with flavor from jalapeños and cheese
  • Easy to make and perfect for sharing
  • A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with dips

Flavor Explosion

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are not just another appetizer; they are a flavor explosion that tantalizes your taste buds. The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheeses, and savory sausage creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and exciting. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of heat and richness, making them a standout choice for gatherings or game day snacks.

What sets these sausage balls apart is the balance of flavors. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese complements the creaminess of the cream cheese, while the jalapeños add just the right amount of spice. Whether you're a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, these sausage balls will surely satisfy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a party, preparing for a family gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are the perfect snack. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and even easier to eat. Plus, they pair beautifully with a variety of dips, from ranch to spicy sriracha, allowing guests to customize their flavors.

These sausage balls are also a hit for holidays and special events. With their vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, they can elevate any buffet or appetizer spread. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient option for last-minute entertaining.

Cooking Tips and Variations

If you want to customize these sausage balls further, consider adding extra ingredients like diced bell peppers, green onions, or even shredded mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor. For those who love a little sweetness, adding a touch of honey or barbecue sauce can create a delightful contrast to the heat of the jalapeños.

When it comes to cooking, you can also experiment with different cooking methods. While baking is the most common approach, these sausage balls can be air-fried for a crispy texture without the added oil. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and golden brown.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin mixing the ingredients.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

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

Form the Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If desired, roll each ball in breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.

Bake

Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

These sausage balls are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven!

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, though this may result in a softer texture.

Serving Suggestions

These sausage balls are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dips and sauces. Consider pairing them with classic ranch dressing, tangy blue cheese, or a zesty guacamole. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy aioli or a sweet chili sauce for an exciting twist.

For a complete meal, serve these sausage balls alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. Guests will appreciate the balance of flavors and textures, making your gathering not just a snack session but a delightful dining experience.

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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.

→ Can I freeze the sausage balls?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

→ What dips pair well with these sausage balls?

They go well with ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or a creamy cheese dip.

→ Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage works well for a lighter version of this recipe.

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls

Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors with these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls, a delicious twist on a classic appetizer.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 24 balls

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb breakfast sausage
  2. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  3. 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  4. 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
  5. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  6. 1 tsp garlic powder
  7. 1 tsp onion powder
  8. 1/2 tsp salt
  9. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  10. 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  11. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating, optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If desired, roll each ball in breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.

Step 04

Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 05

Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g