Looking for a savory snack that’s sure to impress? These sausage balls are the ultimate treat, combining savory sausage, cheese, and spices into delightful, bite-sized morsels. Perfect for game days, parties, or even a cozy family dinner, they are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these sausage balls will disappear quickly from any platter. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground sausage
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup biscuit mix
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 sausage balls. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 sausage ball) contains approximately:
– Calories: 90
– Protein: 5g
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 3g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional information is based on one sausage ball.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage and biscuit mix.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture.
4. Pour in the milk and mix until combined.
5. Stir in the chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using.
6. Use your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Place the sausage balls on a greased baking sheet, spaced apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuit mix. Additionally, experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Sausage balls can be served with a variety of dips such as mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They pair well with fresh veggie platters or as part of a charcuterie board.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the cheese; it adds flavor and moisture.
- Avoid overmixing the ingredients to keep the texture light.
- Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before serving.
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to cook evenly.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Make them ahead of time and reheat for convenience.
- Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and easy shaping.
FAQs
Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze sausage balls?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with sausage balls?
Sausage balls pair well with dips like ranch, mustard, or a spicy salsa. They also complement fresh vegetables and crackers.
Are sausage balls gluten-free?
You can make gluten-free sausage balls by using a gluten-free biscuit mix. Just ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How do I know when sausage balls are done?
Sausage balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Conclusion
Sausage balls are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any gathering. With their savory flavor and easy preparation, they are sure to be a hit among guests. Try this recipe for your next event, and watch them disappear!
Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup biscuit mix
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage and biscuit mix.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture.
- Pour in the milk and mix until combined.
- Stir in the chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using.
- Use your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the sausage balls on a greased baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
