Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a fun and tasty snack that’s super easy to make! With cheesy goodness and a hint of spice, these little bites are sure to become a favorite.
These savory treats are great for any gathering. I love serving them warm with a side of dipping sauce. Just be careful—they disappear quickly! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. I like to mix in a bit of chorizo for extra flavor on occasion!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds great flavor, but if you want a milder version, go for medium cheddar. You can also try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, or a combination of cheeses like mozzarella for extra meltiness.
All-Purpose Flour: The flour helps bind the sausage balls. If you need a gluten-free option, a gluten-free all-purpose blend usually works. I’ve also had success with almond flour for a grain-free version!
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders are essential for flavor. If you like a bit of a different twist, consider adding Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for depth. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!
How Do You Get Perfectly Rounded Sausage Balls?
Rolling the sausage balls might seem simple, but achieving a nice round shape is key for even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- After mixing the dough, use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to portion it out evenly. This helps keep the size consistent.
- Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then roll each portion in your palms until it’s smooth and round.
- Place the rolled balls on the baking sheet with a little space in between for them to cook evenly.
Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly round at first. They’ll round out as they bake. Just focus on making them the same size for even cooking!
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon melted butter mixed with 1 teaspoon dried parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll have delicious, warm Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well until fully combined.
3. Form the Dough
Now, pour in the milk and stir until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough. This should be thick but manageable. If it feels too dry, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Roll the Balls
Using a small ice cream scoop or your hands, scoop out portions of the dough—about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll them between your palms to form nice, round balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
5. Bake to Perfection
Time to bake! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the sausage balls bake for 25-30 minutes. They should turn golden brown and will smell absolutely amazing!
6. Optional Garnish
If you’d like to add an extra touch, mix some melted butter with dried parsley. Once the sausage balls are out of the oven, brush this mixture on top while they’re still warm for that delightful Cheddar Bay flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delicious savory treat or appetizer at parties, potlucks, or game day gatherings!
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are cheesy, savory, and packed with flavor. Your friends and family will love them!
Can I Use Lean Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use lean sausage, but keep in mind that it may result in slightly drier sausage balls. To add moisture, consider mixing in a little extra cheese or milk.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage balls, roll them into balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked sausage balls! Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
