Growing up, sausage balls were a staple at every family gathering, birthday party, and holiday celebration. I can still picture my grandma standing in the kitchen, mixing the dough and meticulously rolling each sausage ball to perfection. The scent of those savory, cheesy bites would fill the air, drawing us all into the kitchen to snatch a few while they were still warm.
Sausage balls were always the first thing to disappear from the appetizer spread, and it’s no wonder why. The combination of flaky, buttery dough, spicy sausage, and gooey cheddar cheese is simply irresistible. I remember my cousins and I fighting over the last few, each of us trying to strategically stash them away before anyone else could grab them.
As I got older and started hosting my own gatherings, I knew I had to master the art of sausage ball making. It took some trial and error, but I eventually landed on a recipe that produces the perfect sausage balls every single time. They’re now my go-to appetizer for any occasion, and I’m excited to share the secrets with you.
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Why This Sausage Balls Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The key to this sausage balls recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sausage provides a savory, spicy kick, while the cheddar cheese melts into the dough to create a rich, gooey center. And the flaky, buttery exterior? Well, that’s just the icing on the cake.
The Secret Behind Perfect Sausage Balls
What sets this sausage balls recipe apart is the unique technique of grating the cold butter directly into the dry ingredients. This ensures that the butter is evenly distributed throughout the dough, resulting in a flakier, more tender texture. Additionally, I’ve found that using a combination of hot Italian sausage and mild pork sausage creates the perfect flavor profile – the heat from the Italian sausage is balanced by the subtle seasoning of the pork.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and a light, airy texture.
- Cold unsalted butter: Grated into the flour, this creates those delectable flaky layers.
- Hot Italian sausage: Brings the heat and bold, savory flavor.
- Mild pork sausage: Complements the Italian sausage with its subtle seasoning.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the dough, creating those irresistible gooey pockets.
- Baking powder: Helps the sausage balls rise and achieve a light, fluffy interior.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Sausage Balls Instructions
Preparing Your Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are incredibly easy to make, and this recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a box grater, a baking sheet, and a few simple kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Use a box grater to grate the cold unsalted butter directly into the dry ingredients, then use your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3- Add the hot Italian sausage and mild pork sausage to the flour mixture, and use your hands to mix everything together until the sausage is evenly distributed.
4- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing it in with your hands until a cohesive dough forms.
5- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
6- Bake the sausage balls for 18-22 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure to use cold, unsalted butter for the best texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough – mix just until the ingredients come together.
- Use a combination of hot and mild sausage to balance the flavors.
- Avoid overfilling the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Serving and Storing Your Sausage Balls
Perfect Pairings for Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are the ultimate party food, and they pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces and beverages. Try serving them with a zesty marinara, creamy ranch, or tangy barbecue sauce. They’re also delicious alongside a crisp white wine, a frosty beer, or a festive holiday cocktail.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Sausage balls are incredibly versatile and can be made ahead of time. Once baked, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
You can also freeze sausage balls for longer storage. After baking, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the sausage balls to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Sausage Balls
Creative Sausage Balls Variations
While this classic sausage balls recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on it. Try swapping the cheddar cheese for a blend of cheeses, like pepper Jack and Parmesan. For a festive twist, add chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme. You could also experiment with different types of sausage, like breakfast or chorizo, to create new flavor profiles.
Making Sausage Balls Diet-Friendly
Looking to make this recipe a bit healthier? You can easily swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a low-carb option. Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage alternatives to make them vegetarian or vegan-friendly. And for those watching their fat intake, you can reduce the amount of butter or use a lighter cheese, like part-skim mozzarella.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese besides cheddar?
A: Absolutely! Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses, such as pepper Jack, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses to create new flavor combinations.
Q: How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?
A: The sausage balls are done when they’re golden brown on the outside and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausage is cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Q: Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Sausage balls can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage – just bake them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Q: How many sausage balls does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields approximately 24-30 sausage balls, depending on the size you scoop them. The serving size can vary, but it’s generally recommended to plan for 3-4 sausage balls per person as an appetizer.
Q: Why are my sausage balls dry or tough?
A: If your sausage balls are coming out dry or tough, it’s likely due to overworking the dough or overcooking them. Be sure to mix the ingredients just until they come together, and keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Sausage Balls – A Quick and Easy Appetizer Recipe
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 24
Description
These easy, cheesy Sausage Balls come together in just 30 minutes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Perfectly bite-sized and packed with savory sausage and melted cheddar, they’re sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground sausage
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar, baking mix, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. 3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the sausage mixture and roll them into balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. 4. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the Sausage Balls are golden brown and cooked through.
5. 5. Serve warm, with your favorite dipping sauces on the side.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. These Sausage Balls can be made ahead and reheated before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Sausage balls have a special place in my heart, and I’m confident this recipe will become a staple in your household as well. The combination of flaky, buttery dough, savory sausage, and melted cheddar cheese is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick and easy appetizer, or craving a nostalgic bite of childhood, these sausage balls are sure to satisfy.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy the most delicious sausage balls you’ve ever tasted. And don’t forget to share your creations with me – I’d love to see how they turn out!
