If you are looking for an irresistible party snack or a comforting bite to enjoy anytime, this Sausage Balls Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with sharp cheddar cheese, savory ground sausage, and fluffy biscuit mix, these golden nuggets are delightfully cheesy, perfectly seasoned, and super easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a game day gathering, or just a cozy night in, these sausage balls always bring smiles and satisfied appetites to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage Balls Recipe is a breeze because it relies on just a few simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays its role perfectly: the biscuit mix gives the dough structure and tenderness, the sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold, creamy flavor, and the ground sausage brings juicy, savory goodness. A splash of milk ties everything together, ensuring the mixture holds well for rolling.
- Biscuit mix (2 cups): Use a trusted brand like Bisquick for light and fluffy texture that holds up beautifully during baking.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 pound, shredded): Freshly shredded sharp cheddar gives a vibrant, tangy punch and melts superbly inside each ball.
- Ground pork sausage (1 pound): Choose your favorite pork or Italian sausage, the star that infuses deep savory notes into every bite.
- Milk (up to ¼ cup): Just a little added moisture helps the mixture come together without making it sticky or wet.
How to Make Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple first step sets you up for perfectly baked sausage balls with golden, crispy edges.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients Thoroughly
In a medium-sized bowl, toss together the biscuit mix, shredded cheese, and ground sausage. Mix everything well with your hands or a spoon until the mixture starts to hold together. If it feels too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it just comes together. Getting the right consistency here is key to sausage balls that stay intact but stay tender.
Step 3: Shape into Perfect Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out about 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture. Roll it gently between your palms until you have a smooth, compact ball. Arrange these on your prepared baking sheet with just a little space between them so they can brown evenly as they bake.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Place your tray in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when their tops turn a beautiful golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen. Let them cool for a few minutes after removing so the cheese sets slightly for that perfect bite.
How to Serve Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
These sausage balls are hearty on their own, but a little garnish can elevate their appeal. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a fresh note. A side of mustard or spicy dipping sauce offers a wonderful contrast to the rich, cheesy flavor.
Side Dishes
Pairing these Sausage Balls Recipe bites with simple sides can turn them into a fuller meal. Fresh fruit slices, a crisp green salad, or even scrambled eggs on the side make excellent companions, balancing savory richness with freshness or extra protein.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests at a brunch or party? Serve your sausage balls on a wooden board or in a colorful serving bowl with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Alternatively, thread a sausage ball onto a cocktail skewer with a cherry tomato and basil leaf for an elegant appetizer twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making for quick and delicious snacks or additions to meals.
Freezing
This Sausage Balls Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place unbaked or baked sausage balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months and baked or reheated straight from frozen with just a few extra minutes in the oven.
Reheating
To enjoy your sausage balls again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy on the outside. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep their delightful texture, as the oven will help maintain that fresh-from-the-oven bite.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage offers a leaner option that still delivers plenty of flavor. Just be mindful that turkey tends to be a bit drier, so you might need to adjust the milk slightly to ensure the mixture holds together well.
What if I don’t have biscuit mix? Can I make my own?
Yes, you can substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and a pinch of salt, but biscuit mix simplifies the process and provides that classic fluffy texture. Homemade versions might yield a slightly different texture but still taste fantastic.
Can I add spices or herbs to customize the flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by mixing in garlic powder, paprika, thyme, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage also pair beautifully with sausage and cheese.
Are sausage balls suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes, freezing before baking is a great way to save time. Just scoop and roll the raw balls, freeze until firm, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
How do I make sure the sausage balls are fully cooked?
To ensure they’re cooked through, bake until the outside is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, baking for 20-25 minutes generally does the trick.
Final Thoughts
You can hardly go wrong with this classic Sausage Balls Recipe—it’s simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight, a holiday gathering, or just because you’re craving something delicious, these sausage balls bring warmth and comfort straight to your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly these little bites disappear!
Print
Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 48 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make sausage balls featuring a crispy golden exterior with a savory, cheesy, and tender interior. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or party appetizers, these bite-sized treats combine sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned ground sausage baked with biscuit mix to create a comforting and crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1 pound shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (or Italian sausage)
- up to ¼ cup milk (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the biscuit mix, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ground sausage. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated and the mixture starts to hold together. Add up to ¼ cup milk gradually if the mixture is too dry to help bind the ingredients.
- Form Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture and roll it into a compact ball with your hands. Place each ball evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
Notes
- Use Italian sausage for a spiced variation or mild sausage for a classic flavor.
- Adjust the milk quantity as needed to get a dough-like consistency for easy shaping.
- Serve warm with mustard or dipping sauces of your choice.
- Make ahead and store baked sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
