Sausage balls are a yummy mix of sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix, all rolled into bite-sized treats. They’re great for parties or just a snack at home!
They’re super easy to make, and I love how the cheesy goodness and savory sausage come together. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce—who could resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: I love using a good-quality breakfast sausage for the best flavor. You can opt for mild or spicy based on your taste preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives the sausage balls a delicious kick. If you want a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even mozzarella for a gooey texture. For a twist, consider pepper jack cheese for extra spice!
Biscuit Mix: The classic Bisquick is easy and quick, but if you don’t have it, you can make your own mix using flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This also allows you to control the ingredients.
Garlic Powder and Black Pepper: These are optional but add a nice depth of flavor. If you love garlic, feel free to add more or even fresh minced garlic. For a touch of heat, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper works too!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Shaped Sausage Balls?
Shaping the sausage balls is a fun part of the process! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined; overmixing can make them tough.
- Wet your hands slightly before shaping; this helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Try to make them uniform in size—about 1-1.5 inches—so they bake evenly.
- Leave space between the balls on the baking sheet; they will expand a little during baking.
Following these steps will give you perfectly shaped, delicious sausage balls every time!
How to Make Delicious Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy depending on your preference)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups baking biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying your sausage balls in just about 35-40 minutes! Perfect for a quick and tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make clean-up easy, or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking biscuit mix. If you like, sprinkle in garlic powder and black pepper for extra flavor. Grab a spoon or use your hands and mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined.
3. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Now, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed balls evenly spaced on your baking sheet, so they have room to expand while they bake.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Your sausage balls should be golden brown and fully cooked through when they’re done.
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the sausage balls cool for just a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle on some fresh parsley for a lovely touch of color and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sausage balls warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like mustard, ranch dressing, or even hot sauce for a kick. Enjoy these delightful bites—they’re perfect for gatherings or as a tasty snack at any time!
These tasty, cheesy sausage balls are sure to be a hit—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly milder, so consider adding extra spices or seasonings to enhance the taste.
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use a gluten-free baking mix instead of the traditional biscuit mix. There are several great options available that will work just as well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Freeze Sausage Balls?
Definitely! You can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing raw, shape the balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer (add a few extra minutes to the baking time!).
