Sausage cheese balls are little bites of fun! They’re made with tasty sausage, gooey cheese, and a hint of spices, all rolled into perfect snacks. Every bite is packed with flavor!
These are great for parties, but let’s be honest, they don’t last long around here! I love to make a big batch and share them with friends, or just keep them all to myself. 🤫
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey sausage or chicken sausage, which also works well in this recipe.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but feel free to mix it up! You can use medium cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses if you like. Just remember that the more flavorful the cheese, the tastier the balls will be!
Biscuit Baking Mix: I used Bisquick, but if you want a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free baking mix. If you want to skip the baking mix, you can use flour, but you might need to adjust the liquid a bit.
Green Onions: These add a nice flavor and color. If you don’t have them, you could use finely chopped regular onions or even skip them for a simpler version.
How Do I Make Sure My Sausage Cheese Balls Are the Perfect Texture?
The texture of your sausage cheese balls is key! To achieve that perfect bite, ensure you mix the ingredients just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- Combine ingredients in a large bowl, then start mixing gently with your hands or a spoon. You want to keep some air in the mixture for fluffiness.
- When rolling the balls, aim for consistency in size, about the size of a golf ball. This helps them cook evenly.
- Baking them on parchment paper helps with sticking, so don’t skip that step!
By following these tips, you’ll end up with deliciously soft and cheesy bites every time!
How to Make Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Mixture:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- ½ cup finely chopped green onions (optional but recommended)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Dipping sauce (e.g., honey mustard or cheese sauce) for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, plan for around 40-45 minutes to get these delicious sausage cheese balls ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your sausage cheese balls cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit baking mix, chopped green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until well combined. It should have a good, cohesive texture.
3. Shape the Cheese Balls:
With your hands, scoop up the mixture by rounded tablespoonfuls and roll each portion into a ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about an inch apart. This will give them room to expand while baking.
4. Bake the Balls:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the sausage cheese balls from the oven and let them cool just enough to handle. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a splash of color.
6. Serve Warm:
These sausage cheese balls are best enjoyed warm! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce on the side, like honey mustard or a cheesy dip. Enjoy!
These little bites are perfect as an appetizer or snack and will surely be a hit at gatherings!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of sausage you choose.
Can I Freeze Sausage Cheese Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the sausage cheese balls cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Biscuit Baking Mix?
If you don’t have biscuit baking mix on hand, you can use all-purpose flour combined with a teaspoon of baking powder for a similar effect. Alternatively, a gluten-free baking mix will also work well for those with dietary restrictions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through. They’re delicious even on the second day!
