Introduction

Sausage balls recipe are a delicious, savory snack that’s always a hit at any gathering. These flavorful bite-sized treats are a perfect blend of sausage, cheese, and seasonings, making them a crowd favorite. Whether served as an appetizer at a party, a snack for game day, or a simple comfort food for family dinners, sausage balls are irresistibly tasty. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare sausage balls with the perfect balance of ingredients, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make them your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sausage balls recipe are one of those recipes that everyone loves, no matter the occasion. They’re savory, cheesy, and packed with rich flavors, creating a delightful combination of textures that make every bite irresistible. The mixture of sausage and cheese gives these balls a rich, hearty flavor, while the biscuit mix or flour ensures the perfect, crumbly texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—few ingredients are needed to create such a satisfying dish.

What makes sausage balls recipe even more special is their versatility. You can tweak the seasonings to suit your taste, add different types of cheese, or even experiment with sausage flavors to change up the traditional recipe. They’re quick to make, cook in just about 20 minutes, and are easily customizable based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a festive event or making them as an everyday snack, these sausage balls are sure to impress.

The delightful golden-brown exterior and the cheesy, flavorful center will have everyone reaching for more. Plus, they’re easy to prepare in advance and can be stored for later, making them a perfect addition to any meal or party spread.

Recipe Details

The origins of sausage balls recipe are deeply rooted in Southern cuisine, where simple, hearty foods are cherished. This recipe, in particular, has been passed down through generations and is especially popular during the holiday season or at large gatherings like tailgates. The use of sausage, cheese, and a binder (such as biscuit mix or flour) creates a comforting snack that combines familiar, homey ingredients in a delightful, easy-to-eat package.

Though sausage balls recipe are popular in Southern U.S. cooking, variations of this dish can be found in many regions. Traditionally, they are made with breakfast sausage, but over the years, many home cooks have made creative adaptations by swapping in different types of sausages, such as spicy Italian or even vegetarian options. Some versions even include hot sauce or other seasonings to add a kick to the flavor profile.

Cooking these sausage balls involves mixing the ingredients together and then baking them at a high temperature. The key to getting a crisp exterior while maintaining a tender interior is to form uniform-sized balls and bake them until golden brown. The combination of high heat and the fats in the sausage creates a crispy crust, while the cheese melts and binds everything together inside.

Nutritional Information

Sausage balls recipe are delicious, but it’s important to be aware of their nutritional content, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional information for a serving of sausage balls (one ball, approximately 1-1.5 inches in diameter):

• Calories: Each sausage ball contains around 100-150 calories, depending on the ingredients used, such as the type of sausage and cheese.
• Protein: Sausage balls are an excellent source of protein, thanks to the sausage. One ball contains about 5-7 grams of protein.
• Fat: Due to the sausage and cheese, each ball typically has 8-12 grams of fat. For a lighter version, leaner sausage and reduced-fat cheese can be used.
• Carbohydrates: The biscuit mix or flour used as a binder will contribute around 5-7 grams of carbs per ball. Using a lower-carb alternative can reduce the carb count for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
• Fiber: If you choose to use whole wheat biscuit mix or incorporate some vegetables into your recipe, you can increase the fiber content.
• Sodium: Sausage balls can be high in sodium due to the processed sausage and cheese, with about 200-400 mg per ball.

While sausage balls recipe can be high in fat and sodium, they can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Consider serving them with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to make the meal more balanced.

Ingredients

For classic sausage balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Sausage (1 lb.): The main ingredient that provides flavor and richness. Breakfast sausage is the most common choice, but you can also use spicy sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar is often preferred because it adds a bold flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sausage. You can experiment with other types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
• Biscuit mix (2 cups): This is the key ingredient that binds everything together and gives the sausage balls their light, fluffy texture. Brands like Bisquick are commonly used, but you can make your own gluten-free biscuit mix if necessary.
• Milk (½ cup): Adds moisture to the dough and helps the ingredients come together.
• Seasonings (optional): You can add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

To enhance the flavor profile, feel free to experiment with different seasonings or cheese varieties. When shopping for ingredients, try to select the freshest sausage and the best quality cheese you can find for the richest flavor.

Equipment Needed

To make sausage balls recipe, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools to help you along the way:

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all of your ingredients thoroughly.
• Shredded cheese grater or food processor: For freshly grated cheese that melts better and provides a smoother texture.
• Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet will ensure that your sausage balls cook evenly without spilling over the edges.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Lining the baking sheet will prevent the sausage balls from sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Spoon or cookie scoop: For portioning the sausage ball mixture into uniform sizes, which helps them cook evenly.

If you don’t have a cookie scoop, you can always use your hands or a tablespoon to shape the sausage balls. A stand mixer can also help speed up the mixing process if you prefer.

Pro Tips For Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your sausage balls turn out perfectly every time:

1. Use cold ingredients: For the best texture, make sure your cheese and sausage are cold when you mix them. Cold fat helps the sausage balls hold their shape while cooking and results in a tender interior.
2. Don’t overwork the dough: When mixing the sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix, be careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough sausage balls, so mix just until everything is combined.
3. Uniform size: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure all the sausage balls are the same size. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t burn on the outside while staying raw on the inside.
4. Watch your baking time: Sausage balls cook quickly, usually around 20-25 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. When they’re golden brown and firm to the touch, they’re ready.
5. Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme, or incorporate diced vegetables like bell peppers or green onions to give your sausage balls a fresh twist.

By following these pro tips, you’ll achieve perfectly golden-brown, tender, and flavorful sausage balls every time.

Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to make the best sausage balls:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the sausage mixture: In a large bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, and milk. Add any optional seasonings you prefer, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper.
3. Mix the dough: Using your hands or a spoon, mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to ensure a tender texture.
4. Form the sausage balls: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside. You can check for doneness by gently pressing on one ball to see if it feels firm.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best texture and flavor.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve the perfect sausage balls that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Recipe Variations

While the classic sausage ball recipe is always a winner, there are plenty of creative variations you can try to mix things up:

• Spicy sausage balls: Add some heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sausage instead of regular breakfast sausage.
• Vegetarian sausage balls: Use a plant-based sausage substitute like Impossible Sausage or Beyond Sausage for a meatless version.
• Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Herb-infused sausage balls: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme to the mixture for added depth of flavor.

These variations allow you to customize your sausage balls to suit different tastes or dietary preferences.

Storage Instructions

Sausage balls are a great make-ahead dish. Here’s how to store them for later enjoyment:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze sausage balls before or after baking. To freeze before baking, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, cook from frozen for 25-30 minutes.
• Reheating: To reheat frozen sausage balls, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

With proper storage, sausage balls can last up to 3 months in the freezer, making them a great make-ahead option for busy days or holiday gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Sausage balls are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Dipping sauces: Serve your sausage balls with a side of mustard, ranch dressing, or hot sauce for dipping.
• Breakfast platter: Pair them with scrambled eggs, pancakes, or fruit for a complete breakfast.
• Party appetizer: Arrange sausage balls on a platter with a variety of dips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party.

For an elegant touch, garnish the sausage balls with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make sausage balls in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

2. What’s the best way to store leftover sausage balls? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage? Yes, turkey sausage works well in this recipe as a lighter alternative.

4. How do I make sausage balls less greasy? Use leaner sausage or drain any excess grease after cooking the sausage before adding it to the mix.

5. How do I prevent sausage balls from being dry? Ensure you use enough milk or add some extra cheese for moisture. Also, avoid overbaking them.

6. Can I make these without biscuit mix? Yes, you can use flour and baking powder as a substitute for biscuit mix.