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Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – Juicy, Cheesy, Low-Carb Bites

Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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If you’re on a keto journey or simply cutting carbs, there’s one recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation: Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. These bite-sized, savory delights are made with juicy sausage, rich cream cheese, and melty cheddar, all bound together with almond flour and just the right blend of seasonings.

They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with protein and healthy fats—ideal for breakfast, meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing party snack. No fuss, no grains, no guilt.

Why Make These Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?

This recipe is more than just a keto-friendly snack—it’s a multipurpose powerhouse that works for every occasion. Here’s why you’ll love them:

1. They’re Low in Carbs but Big on Flavor

Each sausage ball contains under 1 net carb, making them the perfect bite for anyone watching their macros. They have the same nostalgic flavor of traditional sausage balls—without the flour or biscuit mix.

2. Ready in 30 Minutes or Less

These come together in just one bowl, and there’s no need to chill the dough or mess with multiple pans. Perfect for weeknights or last-minute guests.

3. Meal Prep Approved

They store beautifully in the fridge or freezer and reheat like a dream. Make a double batch on Sunday and you’ve got snacks or breakfast for the week.

4. Flexible and Customizable

Spicy or mild sausage? Mozzarella or cheddar? Add jalapeños or bacon? You can easily make this recipe your own.

Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Ingredients List

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make a batch of approximately 24 sausage balls:

Proteins & Dairy:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground pork sausage – Choose mild, hot, or Italian based on your taste. Pork sausage gives the richest flavor, but turkey sausage is a leaner option.

  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened – This helps keep the balls moist and creamy inside.

  • 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar offers bold flavor and melts beautifully.

Binders & Low-Carb Flour:

  • 3/4 cup (75g) almond flour – A keto staple that replaces traditional flour.

  • 1 large egg (optional) – Helps with structure and makes them easier to roll.

Seasonings:

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/4 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Read More: Keto Crab Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect sausage balls every time:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

Place cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short 10–15 second bursts until soft and easy to mix. This ensures a smooth mixture that binds evenly with the sausage.

Step 3: Mix the Sausage and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage and softened cream cheese. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to blend them until smooth and uniform.

Step 4: Add the Rest of the Ingredients

Add in shredded cheddar, almond flour, egg (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to roll into balls.

Tip: If your mixture feels too soft, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before shaping. This firms up the fat and makes rolling easier.

Step 5: Roll into Balls

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on your lined baking sheet with about 1 inch of space between each.

You should get 22–26 balls, depending on size.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for pork.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.

Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Tips and Substitutions

● Making Ahead

You can prep the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Perfect for early morning events or holiday brunches.

● Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese

It’s what makes these sausage balls juicy, not dry. Cream cheese adds moisture and richness while keeping the texture tender.

● Too Soft to Roll?

Chill the mixture for 15 minutes to firm it up, or add a tablespoon more almond flour.

● No Almond Flour?

Substitute with 1/4 cup coconut flour, but note it absorbs more liquid, so use sparingly.

● Make it Spicy

Use hot sausage, add cayenne pepper, or toss in diced jalapeños for heat lovers.

Read More: Low Carb Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Recipe Variations

Here’s how to switch things up:

  • Cheddar Jalapeño Balls: Add 1 chopped jalapeño and a dash of cayenne.

  • Bacon Ranch Sausage Balls: Stir in 1/4 cup cooked crumbled bacon and 1 tsp ranch seasoning.

  • Mozzarella & Italian Sausage: Sub cheddar for mozzarella and add Italian herbs for a pizza-inspired version.

  • Turkey Zucchini Bites: Use ground turkey and fold in 1/4 cup shredded zucchini (squeeze out moisture first).

Eating keto doesn’t have to be complicated. The FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes makes tracking macros simple and enjoyable with easy-to-follow nutrition for every recipe.

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Ball – Based on 24 Balls)

NutrientAmount
Calories110 kcal
Protein6g
Fat9g
Total Carbs1.2g
Fiber0.4g
Net Carbs0.8g
Sugar<0.5g
Sodium200mg
Cholesterol25mg

Read More: Low Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing Leftovers:

  • Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Good for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes.

  • Air Fryer: 350°F for 5–7 minutes for crisp edges.

  • Microwave: 30–45 seconds (may soften the outside slightly).

Serving Ideas:

  • With sugar-free ketchup, keto ranch, or chipotle aioli.

  • As part of a keto breakfast plate with eggs and avocado.

  • Packed in a lunchbox with fresh veggies and cheese cubes.

Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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Common Questions

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, but the texture will be looser. You may need more almond flour or an extra egg to bind the mixture.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Very! Freeze after baking and reheat for a quick snack or breakfast.

Can I omit the egg?

Yes. The cream cheese provides some binding, but they may be slightly more fragile without the egg.

Can I make mini or jumbo balls?

Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time: smaller balls may only need 14–16 minutes, while larger ones may need up to 25.

Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are everything you want in a low-carb snack: simple, cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying. They’re ideal for anyone looking to ditch the carbs without sacrificing taste or texture.

Whether you’re prepping breakfast, planning game-day snacks, or stocking your freezer, this recipe has your back. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable to fit your flavor cravings.

You May Also Like:

1. Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

2. Bacon Egg and Cheese Muffins

3. Easy Keto Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla

4. Keto Salmon Patties

5. Avocado Chicken Salad Without Mayo

6. Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

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