Sausage Balls

About This Recipe

Sausage Balls are a baked appetizer. They are made from a combination of sausage, baking mix, and cheese. The ingredients are mixed, formed into balls, and then baked until cooked through. This recipe is known for its simplicity and minimal preparation time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe requires only three main ingredients. The preparation process is simple and does not require special equipment. Sausage Balls are suitable for serving at gatherings and can be made in advance. They are a portable, self-contained finger food.

Ingredients

1 pound ground pork sausage

2 cups baking mix

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Optional: 1/4 cup milk or water, if needed for moisture

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning blend, such as garlic powder or onion powder

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, baking mix, and shredded cheese.

Mix the ingredients by hand until they are fully incorporated. The mixture will be crumbly at first but will come together as it is mixed. If the mixture is too dry and does not hold together, add a small amount of milk or water.

Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the balls are golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes. Any variety of ground sausage, such as spicy or turkey sausage, can be used. The flavor of the final product will change accordingly.

Can I make the sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes. The unbaked sausage balls can be formed, placed on a baking sheet, and frozen solid. Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

My sausage balls are dry. What happened?

This can occur if the sausage used was very lean or if the balls were overbaked. Using a sausage with a standard fat content and monitoring the baking time can prevent dryness.

You Must Know

Mixing the ingredients thoroughly by hand is necessary to distribute the fat from the sausage, which helps bind the mixture. The sausage balls will be soft when first removed from the oven but will firm up as they cool.

Storage Tips

Cooled sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.