Looking for a bold, cheesy, and savory bite-sized appetizer that brings all the flavor of your favorite party snacks—without flour, sugar, or unnecessary carbs? These Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are exactly what you need. With their soft meat base, rich dairy finish, and signature spice blend, this low-carb version delivers all the richness of classic sausage balls—in a keto-approved, gluten-free format.
Perfect for holiday gatherings , keto-friendly snacks , or when you’re craving something hearty but staying in ketosis, these bite-sized sausage balls use simple ingredients like ground pork, almond flour, and powdered cheese to bring bold Southern-style flavor into your kitchen. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb lifestyle , or simply love protein-packed finger foods with depth and richness, these cream cheese sausage balls will quickly become a go-to dish in your weekly rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect keto cream cheese sausage balls from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love These Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
These aren’t just any old meatballs—they’re a savory-cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in under 30 minutes!
Here’s why they stand out:
- 🥩 Juicy meat base : Made with seasoned ground pork or breakfast sausage for natural moisture.
- 🧀 Cheesy richness : Melted cream cheese adds stretch and savoriness without dryness.
- 🍞 Low-carb binding option : Almond flour or crushed pork rinds hold everything together without gluten.
- 🥣 Easy to make : Just mix, roll, and bake—no fancy tools needed!
- ⏱️ Ready in under 25–30 minutes
- 🧁 Great for batch prep or freezer meals
- 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One bowl = zero mess!
Whether you’re making them for yourself after work, packing for lunch, or sharing at a weekend gathering, these keto sausage balls will quickly become a go-to handheld snack or breakfast booster.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sausage Balls:
- 1 lb bulk breakfast sausage or ground pork
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried herbs (like thyme or oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Add chopped green onions or jalapeños for extra contrast
Final Assembly:
- Toothpicks or skewers (for easy serving)
- Sugar-free dipping sauces (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and easier rolling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a baking sheet or silicone tray with parchment paper or a silicone liner.
Pro Tip: Use mini muffin tins for even easier shaping and crispier edges.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Place the bulk sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Break it apart using a wooden spoon as it cooks (6–8 minutes ) until browned and fully cooked.
Drain excess fat if needed and let cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cooked sausage
- Cream cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Almond flour or pork rinds
- Garlic powder
- Herbs, salt, and pepper
Mix well using clean hands until fully incorporated and slightly sticky.
Note: The mixture should be firm enough to roll—chill briefly if too soft.
Step 4: Roll Into Bite-Sized Bites
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls .
Place on the prepared baking sheet and gently press down slightly if desired.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes , or until golden brown and set.
For extra crunch, broil for the last 1–2 minutes —watch closely to avoid burning.
Let cool slightly before adding toothpicks or dipping sauces.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve warm with:
- A side of keto ranch dip or guacamole
- As part of a charcuterie board with olives and pickles
- Over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a full meal
- In lettuce wraps for a handheld appetizer
Enjoy every soft, cheesy bite of your Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 20 Servings)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~100 kcal |
Total Fat | ~9 g |
Saturated Fat | ~3 g |
Cholesterol | ~20 mg |
Sodium | ~200 mg |
Total Carbs | ~2 g |
Dietary Fiber | ~1 g |
Net Carbs | ~1 g |
Protein | ~4 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best Keto Sausage Balls
- Use high-quality sausage and dairy – Ensures better binding and deeper flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling time – Keeps the mixture firm and prevents crumbling during rolling.
- Layer spices early – Helps build complex taste during cooking.
- Make ahead and store – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Double the batch for future meals – Great for freezing and reheating later.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Chicken Alfredo Style
Replace sausage with shredded chicken and alfredo sauce for creamy contrast.
No-Bake Energy Bites
Chill the mixture and roll into cold bites for grab-and-go snacks.
Vegan Option
Use plant-based sausage alternative and vegan cream cheese for dairy-free magic.
Spicy Kick
Add hot sauce to the mixture or top with jalapeños for fiery contrast.
Bacon-Wrapped Version
Wrap each ball with a half-slice of bacon before baking for smoky depth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~1g net carbs per ball , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular flour or breadcrumbs?
Not recommended—standard flour and breadcrumbs are high in carbs. Stick with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for keto compliance.
How do I store leftover sausage balls?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer for best results.
What kind of sausage works best?
Look for sugar-free breakfast sausage or Italian sausage for the richest flavor.
Can I slow-cook them?
Yes! Place everything in a slow cooker and simmer on low for 2–3 hours for softer texture and infused flavor.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The sausage gives hearty protein power , soaking up seasonings naturally.
- The cream cheese adds body and creaminess , balancing the richness without heaviness.
- And the Parmesan melts into a golden crust , completing the Southern-inspired experience.
It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your keto sausage balls beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
In Wraps
Wrap warm bites in large lettuce leaves or collard greens for handheld eats.
Over Greens
Top arugula or kale with warm sausage balls and balsamic glaze for fusion flair.
With Dipping Sauces
Try chipotle mayo, tzatziki, or lemon-garlic aioli for extra flair.
At a Dinner Party
Cut into halves and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer servings.
As Leftovers
Crumble over scrambled eggs or mix with Greek yogurt for balanced breakfast bowls.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Ground Pork / Sausage
High in B vitamins and iron—supports muscle repair and energy levels.
Cream Cheese / Mascarpone
Rich in healthy fats—great for brain function and satiety.
Almond Flour / Herbs
Natural anti-inflammatory compounds—boosts heart health and flavor naturally.
Even though this is a snack, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Treat for Meat Lovers
These Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting global flavors. With its soft meat base, rich cheese notes, and signature spicy finish, it’s the kind of dish that turns a classic snack into something magical—even without sugary sauces or carb-laden coatings.
Whether you’re new to keto meal prep, looking for a fast appetizer idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these sausage balls deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
Keto Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – Savory, Cheesy & Perfectly Low-Carb!
- Total Time: 40 mins
Description
Juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these bites are irresistible!
Ingredients
1 pound ground breakfast sausage or Italian sausage
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 egg
½ cup almond flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. For easier cleanup, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine sausage, cheese, cream cheese, egg, almond flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
Scoop 1 tablespoon portions of sausage and roll into a ball. Place on prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 618
- Fat: 54g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 29g