These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a fun twist on a classic snack! With yummy cheddar cheese and spicy sausage, they are bursting with flavor. Perfect for parties or just snacking on!
Honestly, who can resist these cheesy, savory bites? I like to serve them warm with a little dipping sauce on the side. Trust me, they disappear fast at gatherings! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: You can choose either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste preferences. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage work well too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives these balls a great flavor, but feel free to swap it out for a milder cheese like Colby Jack or even a blend of cheeses for something unique!
Bisquick Baking Mix: This is key for texture, but you can use regular flour mixed with baking powder (1 cup flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder) if you don’t have Bisquick on hand.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders add great flavor. If you want an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs, like chopped chives or green onions, can also be a nice touch.
How Can I Make My Sausage Balls Even Tastier?
To maximize flavor and ensure you’re making the most of your ingredients, here are a few tips:
- Make sure to cook the sausage ahead of time if you prefer a deeper flavor. Cook and drain excess fat before mixing it in with other ingredients.
- Don’t overmix the dough. Just mix until combined to keep the sausage balls tender.
- Experiment with cheese! Adding a little cream cheese in with the cheddar can make them extra creamy.
- Brushing melted butter on top right after baking enhances the golden color and adds a delicious finish.
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Pair with your favorite sauce and just watch them disappear!
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (choose mild or spicy as you prefer)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix (or a similar biscuit baking mix)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of your sausage and cheese)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing on top after baking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to enjoy these tasty bites right out of the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick baking mix. These ingredients create the base of your yummy sausage balls!
3. Add the Seasonings:
Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried parsley flakes, onion powder, black pepper, and salt if you’re using it. Mix everything together well until fully combined. Don’t worry if the dough feels sticky; that just means it’s going to be delicious!
4. Shape the Sausage Balls:
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each ball.
5. Bake Them Up:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the sausage balls bake for 25-30 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked all the way through. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
6. Finish with Butter:
Once they are done baking, take them out of the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter. This adds a lovely shine and extra flavor.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. If you’d like, sprinkle a bit more parsley flakes on top for a nice touch. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like spicy mayo, ranch, or honey mustard!
Enjoy these savory, cheesy Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls as a delightful snack, crowd-pleasing appetizer, or festive party treat! They’re bound to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any ground sausage you like, such as turkey sausage for a lighter option or even chicken sausage. Just be aware that the flavor may vary depending on the sausage chosen.
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix to keep the recipe gluten-free. Make sure all other ingredients, especially the sausage, are also gluten-free.
How Can I Store Leftover Sausage Balls?
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Sausage Balls Before Baking?
Yes, you can freeze them! After shaping the balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.