Sausage balls are a beloved classic, combining the rich flavors of sausage, sharp cheese, and aromatic spices into bite-sized delights. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a holiday spread, or simply looking for a tasty snack, sausage balls are a versatile and satisfying choice. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making these delicious treats at home, ensuring they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Why Sausage Balls Are a Must-Try
Sausage balls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. They can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even a hearty breakfast option. Plus, they are freezer-friendly, making them a convenient make-ahead dish. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, sausage balls are a recipe you’ll want to keep in your culinary arsenal.
Ingredients for Sausage Balls
To make approximately 24 sausage balls, you’ll need the following:
- 1 pound (450g) of ground sausage (mild, spicy, or flavored, depending on your preference)
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor)
- 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 2 tablespoons of cream cheese (optional, for added moisture)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix. Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be firm and slightly sticky.
- Shape the Sausage Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the sausage balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
- Choose High-Quality Sausage: The flavor of your sausage balls largely depends on the quality of the sausage. Opt for fresh, high-quality sausage for the best results.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Add a Kick of Spice: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Keep the Mixture Moist: Adding cream cheese or a splash of milk can prevent the sausage balls from becoming too dry, especially if you’re using lean sausage.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sausage balls in advance and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag. When you’re ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks and serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- For Breakfast: Pair them with scrambled eggs, biscuits, and fresh fruit for a hearty morning meal.
- At Parties: Include sausage balls as part of a finger-food spread alongside sliders, deviled eggs, and veggie platters.
- Game Day Snack: Serve them with spicy queso dip and chips for a crowd-pleasing snack during sports events.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 24 sausage balls):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked or uncooked sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat sausage balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
Conclusion
Sausage balls are a timeless recipe that brings together the comfort of home cooking with the excitement of bold flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable, adaptable, and guaranteed to impress. Add sausage balls to your repertoire and enjoy the countless ways they can elevate your meals and gatherings.