Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleasing favorite, perfect for brunch, appetizers, or game day snacks. These savory, cheesy bites are made with simple ingredients like sausage, cheese, and baking mix, and they bake up crispy on the outside while remaining soft and flavorful on the inside. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just want a quick, tasty treat, this Sausage Balls recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add the milk and mix everything together until it’s well combined.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls
Bake the sausage balls for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one of the sausage balls in half to ensure there’s no pink in the middle.
Step 5: Serve
Once the sausage balls are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, and you can serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, mustard, or honey mustard.
Cooking Notes
- Sausage: You can use mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference. If you want a leaner version, you can opt for turkey sausage.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Baking Mix: For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free baking mix.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just form the balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, cook the frozen sausage balls directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations
- Cheesy Sausage Balls: Add some cream cheese to the mixture for an extra creamy, cheesy texture.
- Spicy Sausage Balls: For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or use hot sausage.
- Herb-infused Sausage Balls: Add some dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for an added depth of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Use a gluten-free baking mix and make sure to check the sausage packaging to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze sausage balls before or after baking. To freeze before baking, form the balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, cook the sausage balls directly from the freezer for 20-25 minutes.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is typically used, you can try different varieties like Italian sausage or chorizo for a different flavor. If you want to reduce fat content, you can also use turkey or chicken sausage.
Can I make these without cheese?
While cheese adds a rich flavor and texture, you can make the sausage balls without it. The texture may be a little different, but they’ll still taste delicious. You could also substitute the cheese with some cooked, crumbled bacon for added flavor.
These Sausage Balls are the perfect savory snack for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, they’re sure to be a hit at parties, family gatherings, or as a quick snack during the week. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and easy to make, so you can customize them with your favorite flavors and ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and watch these delicious bites disappear in no time
