If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that combines bold flavors and irresistible gooeyness, this Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Imagine tender, savory sausage mixed with sharp cheddar cheese and a light, biscuit base that comes together in bite-sized balls perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, game day, or a holiday party, these cheesy sausage balls bring a warm, comforting feeling with every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one plays a key role in building the right texture, flavor, and color, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime you crave something tasty and satisfying.
- Biscuit mix (2 cups): Acts as the tender, fluffy base that holds everything together with just the right amount of moisture and texture.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 pound, shredded): Brings a vibrant, tangy flavor and creamy richness that oozes with every bite.
- Ground pork sausage (1 pound): The savory star that gives these balls their hearty, meaty depth and just the right amount of spice.
- Milk (up to ¼ cup): Adds moisture to create the perfect dough consistency without making it soggy or dry.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot before you pop the sausage balls in. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This small step helps the sausage balls bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix the biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground sausage until all the ingredients are well incorporated. To help the mixture hold together better, gradually add up to ¼ cup of milk. This brings just enough moisture to make the dough cohesive but still firm enough to shape.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out approximately 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture. Roll each scoop gently between your palms to form a neat ball. Place each sausage ball on the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out slightly. This step is both fun and satisfying because you can see the perfect little balls coming together.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are beautifully golden brown all over. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure joy—warm, cheesy, and savory. Once done, allow them to cool briefly before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
While these sausage balls are delicious as-is, you can elevate their presentation with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while a dusting of smoked paprika introduces a subtle smoky hint that enhances the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
Pairing your cheesy sausage balls with the right sides can make the snack experience even better. Crisp veggie sticks like celery and red pepper provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft sausage balls. A side of honey mustard or a creamy ranch dip also offers a luscious dip option that complements the rich cheese and sausage.
Creative Ways to Present
Ready to impress your guests? Serve the cheesy sausage balls on a rustic wooden platter interspersed with fresh herbs. Alternatively, thread a few on cocktail picks to create easy-to-grab appetizers perfect for parties. Another fun idea is to stuff mini slider buns with a sausage ball and a smear of your favorite sauce to transform them into savory sliders.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers after the fun, store the sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy them as a ready-made snack the next day or two.
Freezing
This Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe freezes wonderfully, giving you a handy stash for busy days. Arrange the uncooked balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly stored, they keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the sausage balls into a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re reheating from frozen, allow a few extra minutes. This method keeps them crisp on the outside while warming the cheesy, savory center perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner option and will still deliver excellent flavor. Just keep in mind it may be a bit milder, so you might want to add a pinch of extra seasoning if you like bold flavors.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the biscuit mix?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free baking mix in place of regular biscuit mix. Just make sure it’s suitable for savory baking, and you should get equally delicious results without compromising texture.
Can I make these sausage balls smaller or larger?
Definitely! The recipe is flexible. Smaller bites make perfect party snacks, while larger balls work great if you want them to be more substantial. Just adjust baking time accordingly—smaller balls cook faster, larger ones need slightly more time.
How do I prevent the sausage balls from being greasy?
Using a lean sausage or Italian sausage with lower fat content can help reduce greasiness. Also, avoid overmixing the dough, which can release excess fat. Baking on parchment lets any excess grease drain away from the balls.
Can I add extra ingredients like spices or herbs?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These additions can personalize the flavor and make your Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting and joyful about these cheesy sausage balls that makes them absolute winners every time. From their simple ingredients to their irresistible flavor, the Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe is perfect for sharing with loved ones or satisfying your own cravings. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and discover just how easy and fun it is to bake up little bites of cheesy, savory perfection!
Print
Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 48 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously savory sausage balls bursting with sharp cheddar cheese and flavorful ground sausage, perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. These easy-to-make baked treats combine biscuit mix, cheese, and sausage to create a golden, satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1 pound shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (or Italian sausage)
- Up to ¼ cup milk (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix ingredients: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the biscuit mix, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ground pork sausage. Add milk incrementally, up to ¼ cup, only as needed to help the mixture come together and hold its shape.
- Form sausage balls: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the sausage mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all mixture is used, spacing them evenly on the sheet.
- Bake until golden: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they become golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage for a spicier flavor or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add milk a teaspoon at a time until the mixture binds well.
- Sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Make sure to use sharp cheddar for the best flavor contrast; mild cheddar may result in a less flavorful bite.
- These sausage balls can be reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.
