Sausage Balls Recipe

Sausage balls are a classic appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix into one delightful bite-sized treat. They’re easy to make, perfect for parties, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a game day party, or just want a tasty snack, sausage balls are a fantastic choice. Here’s how to make them!

Ingredients

To make approximately 30 sausage balls, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound (16 oz) of ground sausage (choose your favorite: spicy, mild, or even breakfast sausage)
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 ½ cups of Bisquick or any other biscuit/baking mix
¼ cup of milk (optional, for added moisture)
1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
1 teaspoon of onion powder (optional)
1 teaspoon of dried parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and biscuit mix. If you’re using garlic powder, onion powder, or dried parsley, add them now. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add up to ¼ cup of milk to help it come together.

3. Form the Balls

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking.

4. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, you can cut one ball open to make sure the sausage is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.

5. Serve

Allow the sausage balls to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. They can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.

Tips and Variations

Make Ahead: Sausage balls can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is especially convenient when planning for parties.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked sausage balls for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
Add-ins: Customize your sausage balls by adding chopped jalapeños, green onions, or even a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.

Conclusion

Sausage balls are a versatile and delicious appetizer that can be tailored to suit your taste preferences. They’re simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and are always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, these savory bites are sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy!

Feel free to share your own tips and variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!