Easy Sausage Balls Recipe - Perfect Party Appetizer

Sausage balls are a classic recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re made with simple ingredients like spicy pork sausage, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Bisquick. These bite-sized homemade sausage balls are easy to make and always a hit. They’re great as a cheesy appetizer for parties, holidays, and game day events.

Key Takeaways

Sausage balls are a classic and popular party appetizer
The recipe is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
The sausage balls are perfect for serving at gatherings, holidays, and game days
They are highly rated for their delicious taste and ease of preparation
The recipe yields approximately 36 sausage balls

The Ultimate Party Snack Everyone Loves

Sausage balls are the perfect addictive snack and comfort food that everyone loves. These small treats mix the savory taste of ground sausage with the creamy softness of cream cheese. The mix of flavors and textures is just too good to resist.

What makes sausage balls so popular? They’re easy to make and can be changed up with different seasonings and cheeses. This makes them a hit at any party. Plus, they’re quick to make, so you can enjoy the party more.

“Sausage balls are the ultimate party snack – they’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit with guests.”

At any event, like a holiday party, game day, or brunch, sausage balls are a great choice. They’re small and tasty, so they go fast. Try them out and see how much your guests will love them!

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground pork sausage	1 pound
Shredded cheddar cheese	2 cups (8 ounces)
All-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)	2 cups
Cream cheese	1 block (8 ounces)

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Sausage Balls

Making the best sausage balls needs the right mix of ingredients. At the core are the sausage ball ingredients: spicy pork sausage, cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and Bisquick baking mix. Together, they create the perfect texture and taste that everyone loves.

Choosing the Right Sausage

The sausage you pick can change how your sausage balls taste. While breakfast sausage is common, try spicier Italian or hot pork sausage for more flavor. Choose a sausage that goes well with the other ingredients and your taste.

Cheese and Bisquick Selection

Using shredded cheese options like sharp cheddar or pepper jack adds richness and texture. Pre-shredded cheese is easy, but grating it yourself gives a fresher taste. Bisquick baking mix is key for holding the balls together. You can also use homemade biscuit mix or breadcrumbs if needed.

Additional Flavor Enhancers

Garlic powder: For an extra savory punch
Dried herbs: Such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano
Scallions or chives: For a subtle onion flavor

These optional ingredients can enhance your sausage balls. Feel free to try different combinations to find your favorite flavor.

Why Cream Cheese Makes These Sausage Balls Special

Cream cheese is the secret that makes these sausage balls special. It gives them a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. The tanginess of the cream cheese pairs well with the savory pork sausage, creating a balanced flavor.

This recipe makes 5 dozen bite-sized snacks. It uses pork sausage, cream cheese, Bisquick baking mix, and cheddar cheese. The sausage balls bake at 400ºF for 18-22 minutes until golden and cooked.

“The cream cheese is the key to keeping these sausage balls super moist and tender. It adds such a delightful richness that complements the savory sausage flavor perfectly.”

Chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking helps. It keeps the sausage balls round and prevents them from spreading. For more flavor, try using spicy sausage or adding diced jalapeños or bell peppers.

You can make these sausage balls ahead of time and freeze them for up to 3 months. No need to thaw them before baking. Serve them with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or tangy ranch for a hit at any party.

Sausage Balls Recipe – Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the perfect sausage balls is easy with this recipe. They’re great for parties, game-day, or as a tasty appetizer. These savory bites will surely impress everyone.

Mixing the Ingredients

First, preheat your oven to 400°F. In a big bowl, mix together the room temperature ingredients: sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Bisquick, and scallions. Use a stand mixer or mix by hand for 1-2 minutes until smooth and well-mixed.

Forming and Baking Tips

Scoop the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls and roll them in your hands to smooth the shape.
Arrange the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake the sausage balls for 20 minutes, turning the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking.
For uniformly shaped sausage balls, roll the mixture into balls with your hands before placing them on the baking sheet.

Temperature and Timing Guide

The sausage balls should be baked at 400°F for about 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce.

“These sausage balls are the perfect party snack – they come together in minutes and always disappear quickly!”

Best Dipping Sauce Options

Make your homemade sausage ball experience even better with tasty dipping sauces. Choose from classic flavors or try new ones. The right sauce can make these appetizers even more delicious.

A favorite is the 3-ingredient honey mustard dip. Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and a bit of mayonnaise for a sweet and tangy taste. If you like a little spice, try sweet chili sauce with mayonnaise for a sweet chili mayo dip.

For a Southern twist, make your own barbecue sauce. Use ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. This sauce is perfect with the rich sausage ball flavors.

Dipping Sauce	Ingredients	Flavor Profile
Honey Mustard	Honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise	Sweet and tangy
Sweet Chili Mayo	Sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise	Sweet and spicy
Homemade BBQ Sauce	Ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, spices	Savory-sweet

For a classic choice, offer your sausage balls with homemade sauces. This lets guests try different flavor pairings. There are countless ways to make this party appetizer even more enjoyable.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Sausage balls are not only tasty but also super convenient. They can be made ahead of time, making them great for meal prep. Whether you’re planning a party or just want a snack, these tips will help keep your sausage balls ready to go.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze uncooked sausage balls, lay them out on a baking sheet. Put them in the freezer until they’re solid, about 2-3 hours. Then, move them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 4 months, ready to bake whenever you want.

Reheating Guidelines

When you’re ready to bake your frozen sausage balls, do it at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. For leftovers, keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, until warm.

Storage Method	Shelf Life
Freezer (Uncooked)	Up to 4 months
Refrigerator (Cooked)	Up to 4 days

Learning how to freeze and reheat sausage balls makes them always available. Enjoy this freezer-friendly appetizer for meal prep or leftovers storage whenever you want!

Creative Flavor Variations and Combinations

Sausage balls are a versatile and beloved appetizer. They can be endlessly customized to suit your taste preferences. Try different types of sausage, cheese, and herbs to create unique and mouthwatering sausage ball variations.

For a savory and aromatic twist, try sage sausage with Gruyere and rosemary. The earthy sage pairs beautifully with the nutty Gruyere and fragrant rosemary. This creates a sophisticated flavor profile. Another delectable option is Italian sausage with mozzarella and basil, evoking the classic flavors of Italy.

If you’re in the mood for a heartier flavor, consider country mild sausage with white cheddar and bacon. The rich, creamy cheddar and smoky bacon complement the mild sausage perfectly. For a touch of sweetness, go for maple sausage with sharp cheddar and thyme.

Sage sausage with Gruyere and rosemary
Italian sausage with mozzarella and basil
Country mild sausage with white cheddar and bacon
Maple sausage with sharp cheddar and thyme

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Havarti, pepper jack, and fontina all make excellent additions to sausage balls. They add unique flavors and textures. Incorporating herbs and spices like garlic powder, sage, or cayenne pepper can also create captivating flavor profiles.

Unleash your culinary creativity and have fun exploring the endless possibilities of sausage ball variations. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delectable snack, these flavor-packed bites are sure to delight.

Tips for Keeping Sausage Balls Moist

Getting your sausage balls just right is crucial for a tasty party snack. Here are some tips to keep them moist and tender:

First, check the sausage to dry ingredients ratio in your recipe. If it’s too dry, add a bit more milk (about 1/4 cup) or cream cheese. This will help keep your moist sausage balls perfect.

Don’t overbake, as it can make the balls dry and crumbly. Bake them until the centers are fully cooked, as the recipe suggests. Using cream cheese in your recipe also helps keep them moist and improves the texture improvement.

If your sausage balls are dry or crumbly, it might be because of an uneven wet-to-dry ingredient ratio. Experiment with different cooking techniques to find the right balance for your ingredients and oven.

“The key to perfectly moist sausage balls is all in the ingredient proportions and baking time.”

Remember these tips to make sausage balls that are moist, tender, and delicious. Enjoy making and eating them!

Perfect Occasions for Serving Sausage Balls

Sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser for many events. They’re great for holiday parties, game days, or brunches. These savory treats are sure to impress your guests.

Holiday Gatherings

At holiday parties, sausage balls are a top choice. Enjoy them at Christmas, New Year’s, or Christmas brunch. They’re loved by all, thanks to their cheesy flavor and easy eating.

Game Day Events

Sausage balls are perfect for Super Bowl parties or tailgating. They’re easy to eat and taste great. Pair them with dips, wings, and sliders for a fantastic spread.

Brunch Ideas

Sausage balls add a special touch to brunch. Try them with tater tot casseroles, coffee cakes, or fresh fruit. They blend well with brunch flavors, making for a memorable meal.

Sausage balls are a hit at any event. They’re easy to make, taste great, and can be prepared ahead. These appetizers, snacks, and food options will make your gathering unforgettable.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Making the perfect sausage balls can sometimes be tricky. But, with a few simple cooking tips and recipe adjustments, you can fix any problems. Let’s look at some common issues and how to solve them. This way, your sausage balls will be a hit at your next event.

Dry Sausage Balls

If your sausage balls are dry, don’t worry. Just add a bit more moisture. Try adding milk or cream cheese to the mix. This will help keep your sausage balls tender and juicy.

Crumbly Texture

For sausage balls that crumble, adjust the wet to dry ingredient ratio. Add more egg or sausage to hold the mix together. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can also help achieve the right consistency.

Undercooked Centers

It’s important to make sure your sausage is fully cooked for safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be at least 160°F. If the outside browns too fast while the inside is raw, lower the oven temperature and cook longer.

Greasy Sausage Balls

To avoid greasiness, line your baking sheet with paper towels. This helps soak up excess fat. You can also use leaner sausage or blot the cooked balls with a paper towel before serving.

Remember these cooking tips and recipe adjustments to solve any sausage ball problems. This way, you’ll always serve moist, flavorful, and delicious appetizers.

Nutritional Information and Portion Size

These tasty sausage balls are packed with nutrition. A single serving of 14g has about 103 calories. It includes 6g of total fat, 3g of saturated fat, and 7g of protein.

Carbohydrates make up 6g, with 0.6g of sugar and 0.1g of dietary fiber. This makes them a good choice for a quick snack.

The sausage balls also offer important vitamins and minerals. A serving has 19.60mcg of vitamin A, 0.0mg of vitamin C, and 0.08mcg of vitamin D. You’ll also get 0.18mg of iron, 52.64mg of calcium, and 24mg of potassium.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (14g)
Calories	103
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	26mg
Sodium	252mg
Carbohydrates	6g
Dietary Fiber	0.1g
Protein	7g
Vitamin A	19.60mcg
Vitamin C	0.0mg
Vitamin D	0.08mcg
Iron	0.18mg
Calcium	52.64mg
Potassium	24mg

The nutritional values can change based on ingredients and portion size. For fewer calories, try using low-fat, chicken, or turkey sausage instead of pork. The recipe makes about 28 sausage balls. It’s best to eat about 1/28 of the recipe at a time.

Serving Suggestions and Party Presentation

When serving these tasty appetizer plating treats, make sure they’re warm and inviting. Sausage balls taste best when served fresh from the oven. For party food display at buffets or potlucks, keep them warm in a slow cooker. Use paper towels to soak up any extra oil.

For a beautiful buffet ideas presentation, place the sausage balls on a fancy platter. Offer small bowls of different dipping sauces on the side. Guests can then mix and match flavors to their liking. Try ranch, honey mustard, or zesty marinara for dipping.

To make a full appetizer spread, pair sausage balls with other easy-to-eat favorites. Think spinach artichoke dip, French pinwheels, or bacon-wrapped water chestnuts. This variety will keep your guests happy and satisfied all event long.

Serving Size	Yield	Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time
3 sausage balls	Approximately 52 balls	10 minutes	20 minutes	30 minutes

Sausage balls are perfect for any party, from holidays to game days and brunches. Presenting them in a way that looks good will make everyone want to try them. These appetizer plating bites are sure to be a hit.

Conclusion

Sausage balls are a tasty and easy appetizer recipe that everyone loves. They have a savory flavor, cheesy goodness, and a great texture. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any party.

Try different flavors to make them even better. Sausage balls are great for any event, from holidays to casual get-togethers. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests.

This recipe makes 16 sausage balls and costs just $8.00. It only takes 35 minutes to cook. It’s a perfect snack for any gathering, offering a mix of savory, cheesy, and smoky flavors.

FAQ

What are sausage balls?

Sausage balls are a classic recipe for any occasion. They’re made with spicy pork sausage, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Bisquick. These bite-sized snacks are easy to make and loved by all.

What makes sausage balls so irresistible?

Their mix of flavors and textures makes them irresistible. The ground sausage gives a savory taste, while cream cheese adds richness. They’re easy to make and always a hit.

What are the key ingredients in sausage balls?

The main ingredients are spicy pork sausage, cream cheese, extra sharp cheddar cheese, and Bisquick. You can also add scallions or try different seasonings and cheeses.

Why is cream cheese an essential ingredient in sausage balls?

Cream cheese makes sausage balls irresistible. It adds a creamy richness and keeps them moist. The tanginess of cream cheese complements the savory sausage, creating a perfect texture.

How do you make sausage balls?

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Mix the ingredients, including sausage, cream cheese, cheddar, Bisquick, and scallions. Scoop into 1-inch balls, roll them smooth, and bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20 minutes, turning halfway.

What are some popular dipping sauces for sausage balls?

Popular sauces include 3-ingredient honey mustard, sweet chili mayo, and homemade southern barbecue sauce. The right sauce can enhance the flavor and add variety.

Can sausage balls be made ahead and frozen?

Yes, you can make them ahead and freeze. Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet until solid, then bag them. Store for 3-4 months. Bake frozen balls at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

What are some creative flavor variations for sausage balls?

Try different flavors like sage sausage with Gruyere and rosemary, or Italian sausage with mozzarella and basil. Adding herbs and spices can create unique tastes.

How can you prevent sausage balls from turning out dry or crumbly?

Ensure the right ratio of sausage to dry ingredients. If too dry, add a little milk or extra cream cheese. Avoid overbaking. Cream cheese helps keep them moist.

What are some great occasions to serve sausage balls?

Serve them at holiday parties, Christmas breakfasts, New Year’s Eve, game days, brunch, potlucks, and family gatherings. They’re perfect for any event.