We received product samples from generous sponsor companies to assist in developing these delightful #PumpkinWeek recipes. All opinions expressed are solely our own.

Irresistible Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls: The Ultimate Savory Appetizer

Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls are an explosion of flavor in every bite, expertly blending cheese, savory sausage, rich pumpkin, and aromatic spices into a perfect baked appetizer. These delightful bites are guaranteed to be the highlight of all your seasonal gatherings!

Seeking more delicious savory pumpkin creations? Don’t miss this comforting Pumpkin Cheddar Ale Soup.

From Beloved Dip to Irresistible Bites: The Story Behind the Recipe

Years ago, a particular sausage, tomato, and cream cheese dip was a legendary favorite among our friends and family. It was a mandatory guest at every football game watch party, New Year’s Eve celebration, and casual get-together for what felt like an eternity. Its creamy texture and bold, savory taste were simply unforgettable, making it a staple we all looked forward to. Then, as often happens with classic recipes, it slowly faded from our rotation. Life got busy, new trends emerged, and the beloved dip became a fond memory.

Recently, the memory of that incredible dip resurfaced, sparking an idea. What if we could reinvent that classic flavor profile, giving it a fresh, seasonal twist? The answer was clear: incorporate the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree, layer in additional seasonings for depth, add extra cheese for ultimate richness, and transform it into perfectly portioned, bakeable bites. This creative leap led to the birth of these Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Ball Bites.

And oh, are we glad we brought them back and gave them this exciting new life! The transformation has been nothing short of spectacular, turning a cherished memory into a modern, irresistible appetizer that’s even better than the original.

Embracing the Savory Side of Pumpkin

I am an enthusiastic advocate for pumpkin, and not just when it comes to sweet pies, lattes, or desserts. While pumpkin undoubtedly shines in those applications, its true versatility often goes overlooked in savory dishes. Pumpkin puree possesses a remarkable ability to meld with other ingredients, creating a creamy, luxurious base that elevates almost any savory concoction it graces.

In this particular cheese ball recipe, pumpkin puree acts as a natural binder and adds a subtle earthiness that perfectly complements the robust flavors of sausage, cheese, and spices. It contributes moisture and a velvety texture without overpowering the other ingredients, allowing them to shine while adding its own unique depth. This makes it an ideal ingredient for creating dishes that are both hearty and sophisticated, proving that pumpkin’s savory potential is just as exciting, if not more so, than its sweet counterpart.

Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls

Crafting these delectable Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that harmonize to create their signature savory flavor. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of richness, spice, and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Sage Country Sausage: The foundation of flavor. Sage-infused sausage offers a rustic, aromatic depth that pairs exceptionally well with pumpkin.
• Diced Tomatoes with Chiles: These add a subtle kick and bright acidity, cutting through the richness of the cheese and sausage. Ensure they are well-drained.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient, offering creaminess, moisture, and that distinctive autumnal touch without making the dish sweet.
• Cabot Monterey Jack Cheese: A favorite for its superb melt and mild, buttery flavor. It adds a wonderful creaminess and cheese pull.
• Pepper: A fundamental seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
• Smoked Sweet Paprika: Provides a hint of smoky warmth and a lovely reddish hue, adding complexity to the overall profile.
• Cream Cheese: The secret to the incredible binding and luscious texture, ensuring the cheese balls are wonderfully smooth inside.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for a delightfully crisp and golden exterior when baked.
• Pretzel Sticks: For an easy, charming handle, transforming these bites into elegant appetizers.

Mastering Homemade Sausage Cheese Balls: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these flavorful Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls from scratch is surprisingly straightforward, yielding impressive results that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch:

1. Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a medium saucepan, cook and crumble the sage country sausage until it’s fully browned. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the well-drained diced tomatoes with chiles and the pumpkin puree. Remove from heat and allow this mixture to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial as it prevents the cream cheese from melting too quickly when combined.
2. Combine with Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Incorporate the cooled sausage and pumpkin mixture, stirring everything together until thoroughly combined and uniform.

3. Roll and Coat: Scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into uniform balls. Gently roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. Place the breaded balls onto a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the cheese balls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through. The panko should be crispy, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly inside.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the cheese balls from the oven. For an elegant presentation and easy handling, insert one pretzel stick into the center of each ball. Garnish each with a fresh parsley leaf for a pop of color and herbaceous note. Serve warm and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls

Here are some common questions and helpful tips to ensure your Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls are a smashing success:

Can I Fry These Cheese Sausage Balls Instead of Baking?

Absolutely! If you prefer a crispier, more indulgent appetizer, these cheese balls can be fried to perfection. To fry them, after rolling the balls in panko, heat about an inch or two of oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the oil temperature up to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the cheese balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for just 1-2 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on all sides. Be sure to use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil before serving.

What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?

While panko breadcrumbs offer a unique light and crispy texture, you have several excellent alternatives if you don’t have them on hand. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs for a finer, denser crust, or Italian breadcrumbs if you want to add extra herb seasoning. For a gluten-free option or a different flavor profile, consider crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines) or even finely crushed potato chips or tortilla chips. Each alternative will impart a slightly different texture and taste, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite!

What Type of Sausage Can I Use for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?

For this particular recipe, we’ve chosen sage country sausage because the earthy notes of sage pair exquisitely with the pumpkin. However, the beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily switch out the sausage to suit your preference or what you have available. Try using regular mild pork sausage for a classic flavor, hot sausage if you enjoy a spicy kick, or turkey sausage for a lighter, leaner option. Each choice will subtly alter the overall flavor, making these cheese balls versatile enough for any palate.

What Type of Cheese Can I Use for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls?

Cabot cheese is undoubtedly my top choice for its superior quality and melt, and Monterey Jack cheese provides a wonderfully creamy base for this recipe. However, feel free to get creative with your cheese selection! Pepper jack cheese will add a delightful spicy warmth, cheddar cheese (sharp or mild) will lend a more robust, tangy flavor, or an Italian cheese blend (like mozzarella and provolone) can offer a different savory dimension. The key is to choose a good melting cheese that complements the other ingredients.

Can Cheesy Sausage Balls Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, these Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Ball Bites are an excellent make-ahead appetizer, perfect for reducing stress before parties or holidays. You can prepare them up to Step 2 (combining the sausage mixture with the cream cheese and shredded cheese) and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll the mixture into balls, coat them in panko breadcrumbs, and bake according to the directions.

Important Tip: We do not recommend rolling the balls in breadcrumbs and then refrigerating them for an extended period. The breadcrumbs can absorb moisture from the mixture and become soggy, losing their desirable crispy texture when baked. Always bread just before baking for the best results!

Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

These Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to delight your guests. They are fantastic on their own as a standalone appetizer, but you can also enhance the experience with complementary accompaniments. Serve them warm from the oven for the best texture, perhaps with a side of ranch dressing, a spicy sriracha mayo, or a sweet and tangy cranberry relish for dipping. For beverages, they pair wonderfully with a crisp hard cider, a light ale, or even a robust red wine. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for an extra touch of color and freshness. They’re also perfect for brunch spreads, adding a savory element that balances out sweeter offerings.

Your New Favorite Fall Appetizer Awaits!

Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast, planning a casual game day get-together, or simply looking for a delightful snack to enjoy, these Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls are sure to impress. Their unique blend of savory flavors, creamy interior, and crispy exterior makes them utterly irresistible. They truly embody the cozy, comforting spirit of the season, offering a delicious twist on a classic concept. Don’t wait for a special occasion; whip up a batch today and savor the magic of savory pumpkin!

Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls

Yield:
30 servings

Cook Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
15 minutes

Pumpkin Sausage Cheese Balls are a baked flavor bomb of cheese, sausage, pumpkin and savory spices. They’re the perfect appetizer to serve for all your gatherings this season!

Ingredients

• 1 (16oz ) package Sage country sausage
• 1 can (15oz) diced tomatoes with chiles
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup Cabot Monterey Jack Cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 brick (8oz) cream cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 30 pretzel sticks

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a medium saucepan, cook and crumble sausage. Add in drained tomatoes and pumpkin puree, turn off heat and allow to cool completely.
3. Into a large bowl add cream cheese and shredded cheese. Stir in sausage mixture and combine well.
4. Roll balls into panko breadcrumbs and place onto aluminum foil, spray with cooking spray on a sheet pan.
5. Bake in oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Place 1 pretzel stick into the middle of each ball and garnish with 1 parsley leaf.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 30
Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 153Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 446mgCarbohydrates: 26gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 5g

All information and tools presented and written within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on strawberryblondiekitchen.com should only be used as a general guideline.