Sausage Cheese Balls are a tasty treat that everyone loves! Made with sausage and cheese, they are baked until golden and yummy.
These little bites are perfect for parties or game nights. Honestly, I can’t help but snack on them straight from the oven! They’re so easy to make, just mix, roll, and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: This is the star ingredient! You can use regular or spicy sausage depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor. If you’re not a fan, try mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier twist. You can also mix different cheeses for added depth!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be good substitutes.
Egg: The egg binds everything together. If you’re vegan or allergic, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can substitute it well.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture?
Getting the right texture for your sausage cheese balls is key! Here are some tips:
- Make sure the sausage is well-mixed with cheese and flour; it should be slightly sticky but not too wet.
- Don’t overmix the dough to keep the balls tender.
- Shape them evenly to ensure even baking. A cookie scoop works great for uniform sizes!
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to help them firm up slightly.
How to Make Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: honey mustard or dipping sauce
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll be enjoying these delicious sausage cheese balls in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s hot enough to cook the sausage balls evenly. While your oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix The Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground breakfast sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture should smell amazing! Mix everything well using your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Add Egg and Milk:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour this mixture into your sausage mixture and mix everything together again until it’s all well blended. This will help bind the balls together.
4. Shape The Balls:
Now it’s time to form the sausage cheese balls! Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of golf balls (1 inch in diameter). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each ball. This allows them room to cook without sticking together.
5. Bake and Enjoy!:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Once baked, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them firm up a bit!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve these delicious sausage cheese balls warm with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
These savory and cheesy sausage balls are perfect for any gathering or as a snack during the day. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork Sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as turkey sausage may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze These Sausage Cheese Balls?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing raw, place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use as a Dipping Sauce?
Honey mustard is a classic choice, but you can also serve these with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha aioli for an extra kick!