Sausage Balls

Introduction

Sausage Balls are a classic Southern appetizer that’s perfect for holidays, parties, brunches, or even a quick snack. They’re made with just a few simple ingredients—ground sausage, biscuit mix, and cheese—baked into golden, bite-sized treats. The result is a savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy bite that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require fancy equipment or complicated steps. Whether you’re serving them as a breakfast bite, party appetizer, or alongside soups and salads, sausage balls are always a hit.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comfort food at its best—simple, hearty, and satisfying. The sausage gives a savory kick, the cheese melts into creamy goodness, and the biscuit mix provides the perfect texture. They’re also versatile and can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even at room temperature, making them great for entertaining.

Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, which means you can make a big batch ahead of time and always have some ready for last-minute guests or snack cravings.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• 3 main ingredients – easy to whip up anytime.
• Perfect for parties – bite-sized and crowd-pleasing.
• Make-ahead friendly – freeze and bake when needed.
• Versatile – works for breakfast, appetizers, or snacks.

Recipe Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 24–30 sausage balls (serves 6–8)
• Calories: ~100–120 per sausage ball (depending on sausage and cheese used)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Southern American
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Breakfast

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
• 2 cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ tsp onion powder (optional)
• 2 tbsp milk (optional, for extra moisture)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix sausage, baking mix, cheese, and seasonings.
2. Shape into 1-inch balls.
3. Bake until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Preheat Oven

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

Step 2: Make the Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, baking mix, shredded cheddar, and optional seasonings.
2. Mix well with your hands or a stand mixer until evenly combined.
   • If mixture feels dry, add 1–2 tbsp of milk.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

1. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
2. Place on prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
• Perfect for breakfast with scrambled eggs and fruit.
• Great as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor, or try a cheese blend for variety.
• Don’t overbake, as sausage balls may dry out.
• A stand mixer makes mixing much easier, especially with sticky sausage.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Variations

• Spicy Sausage Balls: Use hot sausage and add cayenne pepper.
• Cheesy Blend: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella.
• Herb-Flavored: Add fresh parsley, chives, or Italian seasoning.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix.
• Breakfast Style: Add crumbled cooked bacon or finely chopped veggies like bell peppers.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing (Unbaked): Shape sausage balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to baking time.
• Freezing (Baked): Freeze fully baked sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop (optional, for uniform size)

Conclusion

Sausage Balls are the ultimate easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing appetizer. With their crispy edges, cheesy centers, and savory sausage flavor, they’re a hit at parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a quick breakfast bite. Simple to prepare, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a must-have in your collection.