Oh my goodness, let me tell you about sausage balls! These little bites of joy are a total game-changer when it comes to snacks. Seriously, they’re so simple to make and completely packed with flavor. I mean, what’s not to love about a savory mix of sausage and cheese, all rolled up into a perfect little ball? They’re always a hit at parties, game days, or even just as a quick snack for myself when I’m craving something hearty. Plus, the best part? You can whip them up in no time with just a few ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try these sausage balls, you’ll be hooked! They’re the ultimate comfort food, and I can’t wait for you to make them!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound of sausage (you can use your favorite type, whether it’s spicy, mild, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option)
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (I love using sharp cheddar for that extra kick, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack)
- 1 cup of baking mix (this is the secret to that perfect texture—trust me, it makes all the difference!)
- 1/2 cup of milk (you can use whole milk for richness or any alternative milk you prefer)
How to Prepare Sausage Balls
Alright, let’s dive into making these delicious sausage balls! It’s super easy, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven helps the sausage balls cook evenly and get that lovely golden-brown color. So don’t skip this step—your future self will thank you!
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheese, baking mix, and milk. I like to use my hands for this part—it’s messy but effective! Make sure to mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined. You want to ensure that the cheese and sausage are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Trust me, this will make for a tastier bite!
Form the Balls
Now comes the fun part—shaping those delicious bites! I usually take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between my palms. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter; this size cooks perfectly without drying out. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to breathe as they bake.
Bake the Sausage Balls
Once your oven is ready, pop the baking sheet in and let those sausage balls bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful golden brown and smell absolutely irresistible! If you give one a little poke, it should feel firm and cooked through. And just like that, you have a tray of warm, cheesy sausage balls ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sausage balls come together in just about 15 minutes of prep time, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings!
- Flavor-Packed: With the savory blend of sausage and cheese, every bite is bursting with deliciousness that will keep you coming back for more.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day, a holiday party, or just a cozy night in, these little bites are always a hit!
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients like the type of cheese or sausage to suit your taste preferences—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making them an easy option for entertaining.
- Kid-Friendly: These are a fantastic snack for kids and adults alike—who can resist a cheesy, meaty ball of goodness?
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make some mouthwatering sausage balls, here are a few tips to ensure they turn out absolutely perfect every time!
- Experiment with Sausage: Don’t be afraid to try different types of sausage! I love using spicy sausage for a kick, but breakfast sausage or even chicken sausage can work wonders too. Just choose what you like best!
- Cheese Options: While I’m a big fan of sharp cheddar, you can mix and match cheeses! Try using mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some extra heat. The possibilities are endless!
- Make Them Mini: If you want to impress your guests, consider making mini sausage balls! Just reduce the size to about half an inch in diameter and adjust the baking time slightly. They’ll be perfect for party trays!
- Add Herbs and Spices: For a flavor boost, sprinkle in some herbs like parsley or thyme, or even a dash of hot sauce for some zing. It’s a great way to customize the flavor profile!
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the ingredients, just mix until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough sausage balls, and we want them to be tender and delightful!
- Keep an Eye on Baking: Ovens can vary, so start checking your sausage balls a minute or two early. You want that perfect golden brown color and not a minute longer for the best texture!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for sausage ball success! Enjoy making these tasty bites and feel free to get creative—you can’t go wrong!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious sausage balls fresh out of the oven, let’s talk about how to take your snacking experience to the next level! These little bites are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with some tasty dips or drinks can really elevate your gathering.
- Classic Mustard Dip: A tangy mustard dip is always a hit! Just mix some Dijon mustard with a touch of honey for a sweet and spicy combo that complements the savory flavors of the sausage balls.
- Cheesy Dip: If you want to keep the cheese theme going, try serving them with a warm cheese dip. A blend of cream cheese and cheddar, melted together, creates a gooey delight that everyone will love!
- Spicy Ranch Dressing: For a cool and creamy option, a spicy ranch dressing is perfect. It adds a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the sausage balls.
- Fresh Veggies: Serve your sausage balls alongside a platter of fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It adds a nice crunch and a refreshing contrast to the savory bites.
- Drinks: When it comes to drinks, you can’t go wrong with a cold beer or a sparkling lemonade. Both options will balance the richness of the sausage balls beautifully!
- Skewers: For a fun twist, you can also make skewers with sausage balls, cherry tomatoes, and chunks of cheese. It’s a playful way to serve them at parties!
Whatever you choose to serve alongside your sausage balls, just know that they’re bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your friends, prepare those dips, and enjoy every savory, cheesy bite together!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of those delicious sausage balls, and now you’re wondering how to store the leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! First off, let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. This way, they won’t get soggy, and you can keep that perfect texture!
For the best results, you can store your sausage balls in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to separate any layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them. This little trick helps keep them from sticking together—trust me, you’ll want them easy to grab!
Now, when it comes to reheating, I always recommend using the oven for that delightful crispiness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the sausage balls out on a baking sheet. Pop them in for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and just as tasty as when you first made them. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it—just heat them in short bursts to keep them from becoming rubbery.
And if you want to get a little ahead of the game, you can freeze the sausage balls too! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Easy peasy!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have delicious sausage balls ready to go whenever the craving strikes!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! While these sausage balls are undeniably delicious, it’s always good to know what you’re munching on. Each sausage ball is roughly estimated to contain:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so your specific sausage balls might vary slightly depending on the type of sausage and cheese you choose. But no worries, when they taste this good, a little indulgence is totally worth it! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making sausage balls? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I get, and hopefully, they’ll help you whip up the best sausage balls ever.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about sausage balls is their versatility. You can use any kind of sausage you like—be it spicy, mild, or even a lighter option like turkey sausage. Just pick your favorite and roll with it!
Are sausage balls gluten-free?
Yes, they can be! If you use a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular, you can enjoy these tasty bites without any gluten worries. Just double-check your sausage and cheese for any hidden gluten, and you’re good to go!
Can I make these ahead of time?
You bet! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls, then store them in the fridge for a day or two before baking. This makes them a perfect option for parties or gatherings when you want to get a head start!
What can I dip sausage balls in?
Oh, the dipping possibilities are endless! Some favorites include spicy ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a creamy cheese dip. You can even serve them with a tangy salsa for a fun twist!
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Great question! Your sausage balls will be done when they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. If you give one a little poke, it shouldn’t feel soft or squishy. That’s when you know they’re ready to come out of the oven!
Can I freeze sausage balls?
Yes, you can! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They’ll last about two months, and you can bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What if my sausage balls are too dry?
If you find your sausage balls are a bit dry, it could be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the mixture. Next time, try adding a splash more milk or ensure you’re not baking them too long. Remember, they should feel firm but not dry!
Hopefully, these FAQs clear up any confusion and make your sausage ball-making experience even better! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!
Print
Sausage Balls: 7 Flavorful Bites for Every Gathering
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage balls are a savory snack made with sausage and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup baking mix
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix sausage, cheese, baking mix, and milk.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use any type of sausage you prefer.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: sausage balls, snack, appetizer
