Sausage balls are a tasty snack made with sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix. They’re easy to make and perfect for parties or a cozy movie night!
These little bites get gobbled up quickly! I often find myself making a double batch because they disappear so fast. Who can resist? 😄
They’re super simple to whip up—just mix, roll, and bake. I love serving them warm with some dipping sauce on the side. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Use raw breakfast sausage for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too! I sometimes mix it with a spicy sausage for an extra kick.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for that bold flavor. However, you can swap it for any melty cheese you like! Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist.
Biscuit Baking Mix: The classic choice is a biscuit mix like Bisquick. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for a gluten-free baking mix available at your grocery store.
Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a nice touch of color, but it’s optional. You could add green onions or omit it entirely if you prefer.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Shaped Sausage Balls?
Getting the sausage balls to hold together is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Too much mixing can make them tough.
- Use your hands to roll the mixture; it helps shape them better.
- Make sure they are around 1-inch balls. A cookie scoop can make this easier.
- Space them out on the baking sheet so they can brown evenly.
Following these tips will keep your sausage balls juicy inside with a nice crispy outside! Enjoy serving them warm for the best flavor.
How to Make Delicious Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (raw, not cooked)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes before you can enjoy these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the sausage balls don’t stick when baking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw breakfast sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and biscuit baking mix. If you’re using it, add the garlic powder or onion powder to give it that extra flavor. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until it’s fully combined. The mixture will feel soft but should easily hold its shape when rolled.
3. Form the Sausage Balls:
Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one so they have room to expand while baking.
4. Bake Them Up:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. You might want to watch them closely towards the end to avoid over-baking!
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the sausage balls cool for a couple of minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle them with chopped parsley to add some color and freshness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sausage balls warm with your favorite dipping sauce like spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or just as a savory snack!
These sausage balls are juicy with crispy edges, and melty cheese on the inside—a delightful treat that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen sausage, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before mixing it with the other ingredients. Avoid microwave thawing to keep the texture consistent.
What Can I Substitute for the Biscuit Mix?
If you don’t have biscuit mix, you can make your own by combining flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternatively, a gluten-free baking mix can be a good substitute if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
How to Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just roll them into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.