Sausage Balls Recipe: The Ultimate Party Appetizer
Sausage balls are a classic, savory appetizer that has been a crowd favorite for years. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking for a hearty snack, this sausage balls recipe is a quick and delicious solution. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these bite-sized snacks pack a punch of flavor and are sure to impress everyone at the table. The combination of a crispy outer layer and a soft, cheesy center makes them absolutely irresistible. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a party appetizer, breakfast side, or even a quick snack. So, let’s dive into making this flavorful classic!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 24 sausage balls | Approximately 2 dozen sausage balls |
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sausage (such as Jimmy Dean sausage)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will ensure your sausage balls cook evenly and achieve a nice golden crust.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If you want to add a little spice, toss in the optional cayenne pepper. Using your hands, mix the ingredients until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be firm enough to maintain its shape when formed into balls.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
Once your mixture is well combined, roll it into 1-inch balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between them for even cooking. This recipe should yield around 24 sausage balls.
Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls
Place the sausage balls into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. You can check the internal temperature of the sausage balls, which should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
After baking, take the sausage balls out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, mustard, or marinara sauce.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 190
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 470mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 8g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, this recipe is perfect for last-minute gatherings or a busy weeknight snack.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes—swap cheddar for another cheese or use spicy sausage for a kick.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night at home, these sausage balls are always a hit.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Ground Sausage: This is the base of the recipe. You can use breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even spicy sausage to suit your preference. Jimmy Dean sausage is often a popular choice for its savory flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp, rich flavor to the sausage balls. You can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
- Bisquick: This baking mix provides the structure that holds the sausage balls together. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can substitute it with a homemade mix of flour, baking powder, and salt.
You’ll Also Love:
- Cream Cheese Sausage Balls: A creamier take on the classic, incorporating smooth cream cheese into the mix for added richness.
- Best Breakfast Sausage Balls Ever: These sausage balls are perfect for breakfast, served alongside eggs and toast.
- Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders: A savory snack or appetizer made with baked ham, gooey cheese, and soft rolls.
- Bisquick Sausage Balls: A variation using Bisquick baking mix to make them even quicker and easier.
- Spicy Cranberry Sausage Balls: Add some spice and a sweet tangy twist with cranberries in this fun recipe.
- Sausage Balls with Flour: A simpler version of the classic, using just flour instead of Bisquick for a lighter texture.
- Keto Sausage Balls: A low-carb alternative that uses almond flour instead of Bisquick.
- Sausage and Cheese Balls: These are packed with cheddar cheese for an extra gooey and delicious bite.
- Flatbread Breakfast Pizza: A breakfast pizza that features sausage, eggs, and cheese for a complete morning meal.
- Doritos Sausage Balls: A fun and crunchy twist on the classic by adding crushed Doritos into the mix.
- Party Meatballs with Maple Glaze: Sweet and savory meatballs that are perfect for any gathering.
- Hawaiian-Style Meatballs: A tropical take on meatballs, with a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze.
Conclusion
These sausage balls are a fantastic, crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in no time. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want a quick snack, they’re simple, flavorful, and easy to customize. Try serving them with your favorite dipping sauce for an added layer of deliciousness, and watch them disappear! Happy cooking!
Give it a try, and enjoy the savory, protein-packed goodness of these Sausage Balls! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delicious snack any time of day. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see how you make this hearty, flavorful treat your own!