Description
Voodoo Balls are a spicy, cheesy, and savory appetizer made with ground sausage, cream cheese, and a blend of cheeses and spices. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties or game-day gatherings, baked to golden perfection with a hint of smoky paprika and optional jalapeños for extra heat.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Cheese
- 1 pound spicy ground sausage (pork or chicken)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Dry Ingredients and Spices
- 1 cup biscuit mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Additional Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons chopped jalapeños (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the spicy ground sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded pepper jack, biscuit mix, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and chopped jalapeños (if using). Mix thoroughly with your hands or a sturdy spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll each portion into a ball using your hands. Ensure the balls are uniform in size to promote even baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for even cooking and expansion.
- Bake: Bake the balls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on the outside and are cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the voodoo balls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, chipotle mayo, or spicy honey mustard for added flavor.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead and frozen. To bake from frozen, cook at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through.
- For gluten-free versions, substitute the biscuit mix with a gluten-free baking mix.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
