These sausage balls are a tasty mix of sausage, cheese, and baking mix rolled into bite-sized snacks. They’re perfect for parties or just a fun snack at home!
Who can resist a warm sausage ball? I make them for game days, and they disappear faster than I can say “touchdown!” They’re super easy to whip up too—just mix, roll, and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works too, offering a lighter flavor.
Shredded Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite choice for its strong flavor. You can substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for an added kick.
Baking Mix: Bisquick is common, but if you can’t find it, make your own with flour, baking powder, and salt. Just mix 2 cups of flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Fresh Parsley: This is optional but adds a nice touch of color and freshness. You can also use other herbs like chives or basil for a different flavor.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Sausage Balls?
Achieving the perfect sausage balls involves a few key steps. It’s important to mix the ingredients well so that every ball is flavorful. Make sure the sausage is fully cooked through but not overdone.
- Preheat oven thoroughly for even cooking.
- Use your hands to mix; this helps combine ingredients effectively.
- Space the balls out on the baking sheet, so they cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
- Keep an eye on them as they bake—every oven is different! Look for a golden brown color and check the internal temperature.
How to Make Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, you’ll be enjoying your tasty sausage balls in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with cooking spray. This helps to prevent your sausage balls from sticking!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix. If you’re adding garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper for extra flavor, toss them in as well. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there—it’s the best way to make sure it’s mixed evenly!
3. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Using your hands, scoop out about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about 1 inch of space between them for even cooking. This should make around 24 sausage balls!
4. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’re waiting for the sausage balls to become golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). A good golden color means they’re perfectly cooked!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done baking, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you want, you can garnish them with fresh parsley. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce—honey mustard or spicy mustard are great choices!
Now grab your friends and family and enjoy these delicious sausage balls as a snack, appetizer, or party treat!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage before mixing it with the other ingredients. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quicker option. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual!
How Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these sausage balls gluten-free by using a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. Just look for a one-to-one baking mix, and you’re good to go!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a quick snack or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
What Can I Substitue for Cheese?
If you want to skip the cheese or need a dairy-free option, you can leave it out entirely or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You might also want to add some extra spices or herbs for flavor since cheese adds a lot of richness!
