Sausage Balls are a classic appetizer that’s quick, savory, and always a crowd-pleaser. These little bites of goodness are made with sausage, cheese, and baking mix, creating a flavorful and cheesy snack. They’re perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just as a tasty snack for any time of day.Here’s an easy recipe for making Sausage Balls:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, baking mix, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture will be thick and a bit sticky.
3. Form the Sausage Balls:
- Scoop out small portions of the sausage mixture (about 1 tablespoon per ball) and roll them into 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
4. Bake the Sausage Balls:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature should be 160°F or 71°C).
5. Serve:
- Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature.
- You can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing, if desired.
Tips:
- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicier kick or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a more melty texture.
- Freezing: Sausage balls freeze well! If you’d like to make them ahead of time, form the balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a Ziploc bag. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer (you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time).
- Spices: For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, dried herbs, or even some chopped green onions to the mixture.
These Sausage Balls are cheesy, savory, and perfect for any occasion. They’re so easy to make and always a hit at parties!
