Cheesy Sausage Balls

Cheesy Sausage Balls are a savory, bite-sized appetizer made with ground sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and biscuit baking mix. These flavorful morsels are perfect for parties, brunches, or as a quick snack, offering a delightful combination of cheesy goodness and hearty sausage in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Requires only a few pantry staples.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Suitable for breakfast, appetizers, or party snacks.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and frozen.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground pork sausage
• 2 cups biscuit baking mix
• 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage and biscuit baking mix. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Add Cheese: Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
4. Form Balls: Roll the mixture into walnut-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 30 sausage balls
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor.
• Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the biscuit mix with a gluten-free baking mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or frozen sausage balls in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

What type of sausage should I use?

You can use any ground pork sausage, such as breakfast sausage. Choose between mild or spicy based on your preference.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls and refrigerate them overnight or freeze them for longer storage before baking.

Do I need to cook the sausage before mixing?

No, the sausage is mixed in raw and cooks thoroughly during the baking process.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese works well, but freshly shredded cheese may melt more smoothly.

How do I prevent the sausage balls from being dry?

Ensure accurate measurements and avoid overbaking. Using full-fat cheese and sausage can also help retain moisture.

Can I add vegetables to the mix?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions can be added for extra flavor and texture.

What dipping sauces pair well with these?

Popular choices include ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli.

Can I use a different type of baking mix?

While biscuit baking mix is traditional, you can experiment with pancake mixes or other baking mixes, keeping in mind the texture may vary.

Are these suitable for a keto diet?

To make them keto-friendly, use almond flour instead of biscuit mix and ensure the sausage and cheese are low in carbs.

How do I know when they’re fully cooked?

The sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Conclusion

Cheesy Sausage Balls are a delightful and versatile addition to any meal or gathering. Their ease of preparation and savory flavor make them a go-to recipe for many occasions. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a brunch spread, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit with everyone.

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