Oh my goodness, let me tell you about sausage balls! These little savory bites are the ultimate party food, and they’ve got a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering at my house—friends were raving about them before they even took a bite! The smell of sausage and melted cheese wafting through the air is just irresistible. They’re super simple to whip up and perfect for snacking, whether you’re hosting a game night or a holiday party. Trust me, once you try these sausage balls, you’ll be the star of every potluck!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound sausage (your favorite kind, I love using spicy for a kick!)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better for flavor!)
- 1 cup baking mix (like Bisquick, it makes everything come together smoothly)
- 1/4 cup milk (just enough to keep it moist and delicious)
How to Prepare Sausage Balls
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven is key to getting those sausage balls perfectly golden brown!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be shy—get in there!
- Next, pour in the milk. This helps keep the sausage balls moist, so don’t skip it! Mix until the milk is fully integrated and the mixture holds together.
- Now, it’s time to form your sausage balls! Grab a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space in between for even cooking.
- Pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the cheese is bubbling a bit. Oh, that smell is heavenly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: You can whip these up in no time, making them a go-to for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Perfect for gatherings: Sausage balls are always a hit at parties, and they disappear faster than you can say « snack time! »
- Flavorful and satisfying: With the savory sausage and gooey cheese, each bite is packed with deliciousness that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Gluten-free option available: Just swap in a gluten-free baking mix, and you’re all set to cater to those with dietary restrictions!
Tips for Success
Getting your sausage balls just right can make all the difference, so here are my top tips for success! First, make sure to really combine the sausage, cheese, and baking mix well. I often use my hands for this—it’s the best way to ensure everything is evenly mixed and no dry spots are left behind. You’ll want that cheesy goodness in every bite!
When it comes to baking, keep an eye on them as they approach that 20-minute mark. Every oven is a little different, so your sausage balls might be done a bit earlier or later. They’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. If you let them go too long, they can dry out a bit, so check them frequently!
For a little extra flavor, consider adding some spices to the mixture. A dash of garlic powder or even some cayenne can elevate your sausage balls to the next level! And don’t forget to let them cool for a few minutes before diving in—trust me, that melty cheese will be a bit too hot at first!
Variations on Sausage Balls
One of the best things about sausage balls is how versatile they are! You can easily switch things up to keep them exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations that you just have to try:
- Cheese Swap: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with different cheeses! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or go with a creamy mozzarella for a milder flavor. You can even mix a couple of cheeses for an explosion of flavor!
- Herb Infusion: Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can give your sausage balls a fresh twist that’s oh-so-inviting!
- Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. It takes the flavor profile to a whole new level!
- Veggie Boost: For a healthier twist, finely chop some spinach or bell peppers and mix them in. They’ll add color and a bit of extra nutrition without compromising the flavor!
- BBQ Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon or two of your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy, smoky flavor that’ll have everyone asking for the secret ingredient!
Feel free to get creative! The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a unique touch to these delicious bites. I love switching it up depending on my mood or what I have on hand. Enjoy the exploration!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious sausage balls, you might have a few leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store them, simply let the sausage balls cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for snacking on later!
If you want to save some for a future craving, you can freeze them! Just place the cooled sausage balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and pop them in the freezer for about an hour. This way, they won’t stick together. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to reheat, you can pop them back in the oven straight from the freezer. Just place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave them for 30-60 seconds, but I prefer the oven for that lovely, crispy texture. Trust me, the extra step is worth it for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know many of you like to keep an eye on what you’re eating, so here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for these tasty sausage balls. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, so it’s always a good idea to double-check if you’re tracking your intake closely.
- Serving Size: 1 sausage ball
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 10g
With all that savory goodness packed in, these sausage balls are definitely a satisfying snack! Enjoy them knowing they’re not just tasty but also provide a good dose of protein. Perfect for fueling your fun gatherings!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any kind of sausage you love—pork, turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist. Just keep in mind that different sausages will bring different flavors, so feel free to experiment!
How do I know when they are done?
Your sausage balls are ready when they’re a beautiful golden brown and the cheese is bubbling a bit. If you poke one with a toothpick, it should come out clean and the inside should be cooked through. It’s always good to check around the 20-minute mark since ovens can vary!
What can I serve with sausage balls?
Sausage balls are fabulous on their own, but they’re also great with dipping sauces! Try serving them with mustard, ranch dressing, or a zesty marinara for some added flavor. They make a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board or as part of a game day spread!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making these sausage balls? What did you think? Did you add any of your own twists to the recipe? I’m always on the lookout for new ideas and variations, so please share your experiences in the comments below!
If you enjoyed this recipe, consider rating it, too! Your feedback means the world to me and helps others find this delicious treat. Let’s keep the conversation going—what’s your favorite way to enjoy sausage balls? Can’t wait to read all about your culinary adventures!
Imprimer
Sausage Balls: 5 Irresistibly Savory Bite-Sized Treats
- Temps Total: 35 minutes
- Rendement: 24 balls 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
Sausage balls are savory bites made from sausage, cheese, and flour. They are perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingrédients
- 1 pound sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup baking mix
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sausage, cheese, and baking mix.
- Add milk and mix until well combined.
- Form mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve warm for best flavor.
- Can be frozen for later use.
- Adjust cheese type for different flavors.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Appetizer
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sucre: 0g
- De Sodium: 300mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 4g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 6g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 3g
- La fibre: 0g
- La protéine: 10g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 30mg
Mots-clés: sausage balls, appetizer, party food
