Sausage cheese balls are simple, tasty bites perfect for any gathering. Made with sausage and cheese, they have a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, cheesy center. Yum!
These little snacks quickly disappear at parties! I love how easy they are to whip up. Just mix, roll, and bake—next thing you know, you have a crowd-pleaser ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too!
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar gives a rich flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Feel free to swap in any cheese you like! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or a blend of Italian cheeses could be great, too.
Biscuit Baking Mix: If you don’t have this on hand, you can replace it with self-rising flour and add a bit of baking powder to mimic the fluffiness. I often use a gluten-free baking mix for a lighter option.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs like chives or cilantro work well, too! They brighten the flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can be used sparingly.
What’s the Best Way to Mix and Shape the Sausage Balls?
Getting the mixture right is key to delicious sausage cheese balls! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until combined, but don’t overwork the meat. Just enough mixing is best.
- To form the balls, wet your hands slightly to help prevent sticking. This little trick makes it easier to roll perfect 1-inch balls!
- Spacing them out on the baking sheet is important for even cooking and browning. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they crisp up nicely.
Keep an eye on them in the oven, as cooking times can vary slightly depending on your oven. Enjoy these tasty bites at your next gathering!
How to Make Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose biscuit baking mix or self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra spice
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the baking sheet
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, from start to finish, you’ll have delicious sausage cheese balls ready in about 35-40 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or a fantastic party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray with cooking oil so the sausage balls don’t stick.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, baking mix (or self-rising flour), chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of spice. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything together until well blended. It should form a thick mixture that holds together.
3. Form the Sausage Balls:
Now it’s time to shape your mixture into balls! Grab a small amount in your hands (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one so they can bake evenly.
4. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake the sausage cheese balls for about 20 to 25 minutes. They should be golden brown, cooked through, and the cheese should be melted. Let them bake until they’re nice and crisp on the outside!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the sausage cheese balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. If you like, garnish them with a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley for a touch of color.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your warm sausage cheese balls with your preferred dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing. These little bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering—enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of ground sausage you prefer, whether it’s pork, turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage. Just be mindful that the flavor and fat content may vary, so adjust seasonings if needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Sausage Cheese Balls?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked sausage balls. Just form them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What Can I Serve With Sausage Cheese Balls?
These sausage cheese balls pair wonderfully with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. You can also serve them alongside pickles or fresh veggies for a fun appetizer spread.
