Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground pork sausage
  • 4 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
  • 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Combine the lean ground pork sausage and softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Use a fork to blend until the mixture is cohesive and no large lumps of cream cheese remain.
  2. Fold in the freshly grated cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir until the flour is just incorporated. Note: Stop stirring as soon as the flour disappears to avoid toughness.
  3. Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into 1 inch balls.
  4. Squeeze each ball firmly in your palm. Note: This removes air pockets so the balls don't collapse.
  5. Place the balls on a parchment lined baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between them.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Bake for 20 minutes until the exterior is mahogany colored and sizzling.
  8. Let them rest on the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a platter.