These sausage balls are a fun and tasty snack! Made with sausage, cheese, and just a few other simple ingredients, they are perfectly cheesy and flavorful.
You can whip them up quickly for a party or a game day treat. I love dipping them in my favorite sauce—it just makes them even better! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage. I usually go for pork for its richer flavor, but turkey is a great lighter option if you are watching your fat intake. Some people even use chicken sausage for a unique twist!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The best choice for flavor! However, if you want a milder taste, you could use mild cheddar. You can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Baking Mix: Bisquick is a popular choice, but if you don’t have it, you can use plain flour mixed with a bit of baking powder, about 1 tablespoon for every cup of flour. This can be a handy substitute!
Onion & Garlic Powder: These add great flavors! If you’re not a fan of onions or want to keep it even simpler, feel free to skip them. You could also use onion powder instead of fresh onion for a less intense flavor.
How Can I Make Sure They Bake Evenly?
Baking sausage balls to a perfect golden brown can seem tricky. Here are some tips to help:
- Make them uniform: Roll the mixture into even balls—this ensures they cook at the same rate. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
- Don’t overcrowd: Space them evenly on the baking sheet. Leave some room for the heat to circulate around each ball.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer—aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for pork sausage or 165°F (74°C) for turkey sausage. This way, you’re sure they’re cooked through.
How to Make Delicious Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes roughly 15 minutes for preparation and about 25 to 30 minutes for baking. So, you can have these delicious sausage balls ready in about an hour—perfect for a quick snack or appetizer for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure the sausage balls bake evenly. While it’s heating up, go ahead and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, baking mix, and if you’d like, the chopped onion and garlic powder. Add in the black pepper for some extra flavor. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until it forms a cohesive mixture.
3. Form the Balls:
Scoop the mixture and roll it into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in size. It helps to keep them all the same size so they bake evenly. Place the balls evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake Them:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the tray in your preheated oven and let them bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are browned and cooked through. A perfect tell-tale sign is when they are golden brown and the cheese is melting!
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some dried parsley or freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of green and added flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These sausage balls are best served warm. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like mustard, ranch, or marinara for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy these cheesy, savory bites as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can use any ground sausage you prefer—like Italian, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time. Simply roll them into balls and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Can I Freeze Sausage Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! After rolling into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
