Sausage balls are yummy bite-sized snacks made with sausage, cheese, and a little biscuit mix. They’re perfect for parties or game days, and they disappear fast!
Making them is so easy! Just mix everything, roll them into balls, and bake. I love serving these with some spicy mustard—it’s a fun treat everyone enjoys! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausages based on your taste. If you want a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its strong flavor, but feel free to substitute with mild cheddar or other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
Baking Mix: While Bisquick is commonly used, you can make your own mix by combining flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gluten-free baking mix is also an option if you need to avoid gluten.
Onion: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
How Do I Ensure My Sausage Balls Are Perfectly Moist?
To keep your sausage balls moist and flavorful, mixing just the right amount of milk can help. Here’s how to make sure they turn out great:
- Make sure not to overmix the ingredients—combine until just mixed.
- If using frozen sausage, thaw it completely and drain excess moisture.
- Add milk gradually until the mixture feels moist but not too sticky.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious and juicy sausage balls ready to enjoy!
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 mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp milk (optional, for moisture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes. That’s pretty quick for such a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sausage balls will bake evenly. While that’s heating up, you can prepare your baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, finely chopped onion (if you’re using it), garlic powder, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s all combined. If the mixture feels a bit dry, that’s when you can add in 2-3 tablespoons of milk to help bring it all together nicely.
3. Shape the Balls:
Once your mixture is ready, roll it into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in size. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about an inch of space between each one. This helps them cook evenly without sticking together.
4. Bake Away:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and when they turn a lovely golden brown and look fully cooked, you’re good to go. They should have a nice cheesy aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll be hot! These sausage balls are best enjoyed warm, and you can serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup or mustard.
Now you’re all set to enjoy these delicious, cheesy sausage balls as a fantastic appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage! Just be sure to thaw it completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or use the microwave for quick defrosting, and then pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for the Baking Mix?
If you don’t have baking mix on hand, you can create your own by combining 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This makes a great alternative that works just as well!
How Should I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Could I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage balls, roll them into balls, and freeze them unbaked. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
