Sausage balls are a timeless classic that combines savory sausage, rich cheese, and fluffy baking mix to create bite-sized treats perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual brunch, or simply craving something flavorful, these sausage balls will delight your taste buds. Easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness, they’re a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground pork sausage (spicy or mild, as preferred)
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional, for added moisture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the cheese throughout the sausage.
- Add the baking mix to the sausage and cheese mixture. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to incorporate the ingredients. The mixture will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of cream cheese to improve the texture and moisture level.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and black pepper. Mix again until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, roughly 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter. Aim for uniform sizing to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball to allow for slight expansion during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. To confirm doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the center of a ball; it should read 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer them to a serving platter.
- Serve warm as-is, or pair with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Balls:
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
- To make them gluten-free, substitute the baking mix with a gluten-free alternative.
- Prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven at 325°F (160°C) for 8-10 minutes or microwaved for a quick snack.
Enjoy these delightful sausage balls as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a snack for game day, or even a grab-and-go breakfast option. Their combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for the recipe!