Introduction
Sausage balls are a classic recipe that everyone loves. Made with sausage, cheese, and a simple baking mix, these little bites are savory, cheesy, and full of flavor. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or even as a quick breakfast or snack at home.
The best part? They only take about 15 minutes to prepare and bake up golden and delicious every time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a keeper for your recipe box.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick (or other all-purpose baking mix)
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the mixture
In a large bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheese, Bisquick, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until fully combined. The mixture will be thick and a little sticky.
Step 3: Shape into balls
Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. They’re also delicious on their own.
Tips and Variations
- Use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
- Try different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for new flavor combinations.
- Add finely chopped jalapeños or bell peppers to the mixture for extra texture.
- Make them ahead of time and freeze for easy snacks or appetizers.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place cooled sausage balls in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make sausage balls without Bisquick?
Yes, you can substitute with a homemade baking mix by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and a little butter.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the mixture, roll into balls, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Are sausage balls gluten-free?
Not with regular Bisquick, but you can use a gluten-free baking mix to make them gluten-free.
Conclusion
Sausage balls are the ultimate bite-sized comfort food. They’re cheesy, savory, and incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a family snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe once, and it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.