Cheesy Sausage Balls: Prepare to meet your new favorite appetizer! These savory bites are incredibly addictive and perfect for any occasion, from casual game-day gatherings to elegant holiday parties. I’m telling you, once you pop one, you won’t be able to stop!

While the exact origins of cheesy sausage balls are a bit hazy, they’ve become a beloved staple in Southern cuisine and beyond. Think of them as a delicious, deconstructed sausage biscuit, transformed into a convenient and crowd-pleasing finger food. Their popularity exploded in the mid-20th century, likely fueled by the increasing availability of pre-made biscuit mix and the desire for easy, flavorful snacks.

What makes these little spheres of deliciousness so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of savory sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and the subtle sweetness of biscuit mix. The texture is also key a slightly crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy interior that melts in your mouth. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying snack or a show-stopping appetizer, these cheesy sausage balls are guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients:

1 pound bulk pork sausage (I prefer a mild or hot Italian sausage, but breakfast sausage works great too!)
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can use a blend)
1 ½ cups baking mix (like Bisquick this is crucial for the right texture!)
½ cup milk (whole milk is best, but 2% will also work)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (because everything is better with garlic!)
½ teaspoon onion powder (adds a subtle savory note)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always a plus!)
Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for a pop of color and freshness)
Optional: 1/4 cup finely diced green onions (for a bit of zing)
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat, especially if using mild sausage)

Getting Started: Preparing the Sausage Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure even cooking. While the oven is preheating, you can prepare the sausage mixture.
In a large bowl, crumble the bulk pork sausage. Make sure there are no large clumps. You want it to be evenly distributed throughout the mixture. If your sausage is frozen, thaw it completely before starting.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the sausage. I like to use freshly shredded cheese because it melts better and has a better flavor than pre-shredded cheese. However, pre-shredded will work in a pinch.
Pour in the baking mix (Bisquick). This is the key ingredient that helps bind everything together and gives the sausage balls their signature texture. Don’t substitute with flour, as it won’t have the same effect.
Add the milk. The milk helps to moisten the mixture and bring it all together.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. These spices add a delicious savory flavor to the sausage balls. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking.
If using, add the chopped fresh parsley, diced green onions, and red pepper flakes. These optional ingredients add extra flavor and visual appeal. The parsley adds a touch of freshness, the green onions add a bit of zing, and the red pepper flakes add a little heat.
Using your hands (or a sturdy spoon), mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sausage balls tough. You want the mixture to be evenly distributed and slightly sticky. I find that using my hands is the easiest way to ensure everything is properly mixed.

Forming the Sausage Balls

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup a breeze. You can also use a silicone baking mat.
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the sausage mixture into 1-inch balls. I find that a cookie scoop helps to ensure that all the sausage balls are the same size, which helps them cook evenly. If using your hands, wet them slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This will allow for proper air circulation and ensure that the sausage balls cook evenly.

Baking the Cheesy Sausage Balls

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The exact baking time will depend on your oven and the size of the sausage balls. Check them after 20 minutes and add a few more minutes if needed. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This will allow them to firm up a bit and prevent them from falling apart.

Serving and Storage

Serve the cheesy sausage balls warm. They are delicious on their own as an appetizer or snack, or you can serve them with a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or air fryer before serving.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

Tips and Variations

For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
For a cheesier flavor, use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. You can also add some shredded Parmesan cheese for a more complex flavor.
For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey or chicken sausage. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as leaner meats tend to cook faster.
Add some chopped vegetables to the mixture, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. This will add extra flavor and nutrients to the sausage balls.
Serve the sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or marinara sauce.
Make mini sausage balls for a bite-sized appetizer. Simply reduce the size of the balls and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Use different types of baking mix, such as gluten-free baking mix, to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the mixture for extra creaminess.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, or thyme.
For a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the mixture.

Troubleshooting

If the sausage balls are too dry, add a little more milk to the mixture.
If the sausage balls are too greasy, drain off any excess grease after baking.
If the sausage balls are not holding their shape, add a little more baking mix to the mixture.
If the sausage balls are burning on the bottom, lower the oven temperature and bake them for a longer time.
If the sausage balls are not cooking through, increase the oven temperature and bake them for a shorter time.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a classic for a reason! The combination of savory sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and the binding power of Bisquick creates a perfectly balanced and incredibly addictive appetizer. The addition of garlic and onion powder elevates the flavor profile, while the optional parsley and green onions add a touch of freshness. The recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different types of sausage, cheese, and spices. Plus, they are super easy to make, perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight snack. The fact that they can be made ahead of time and frozen makes them even more convenient. I’ve been making these for years, and they are always a crowd-pleaser!

Serving Suggestions:

Game Day: These are a must-have for any football party!
Holiday Appetizer: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve.
Brunch: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty brunch.
Potlucks: Easy to transport and always a hit!
Snack: A quick and satisfying snack any time of day.

Enjoy!

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest: you’ve read this far because you’re intrigued, and rightfully so! These Cheesy Sausage Balls are more than just a snack; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. The savory sausage, the creamy cheese, and that hint of spice all combine to create something truly irresistible. They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a delicious and satisfying bite.

Why are these a must-try? Because they’re the perfect balance of comfort food and convenience. They’re quick enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Think of them as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

While these Cheesy Sausage Balls are fantastic on their own, dipping sauces can elevate them to a whole new level. Consider serving them with:

Honey mustard for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Ranch dressing for a classic and creamy pairing.
A spicy sriracha mayo for those who like a little heat.
A simple marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired twist.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick.
Cheese lover’s delight: Use a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack, for a more complex flavor profile.
Herbaceous twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or rosemary for a burst of freshness.
Veggie boost: Finely dice some bell peppers, onions, or zucchini and add them to the mixture for added nutrients and texture.
Sweet and savory: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the mixture for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory sausage.

You can even use different types of sausage! Try Italian sausage for a bolder flavor, or turkey sausage for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again, adapting it to your own preferences and sharing it with your loved ones. The simplicity and deliciousness of these Cheesy Sausage Balls are simply undeniable.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade Cheesy Sausage Balls. I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to get creative and make them your own!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made them, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what variations you tried, what dipping sauces you paired them with, and what your family and friends thought. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that you’ll all enjoy. Happy baking (or should I say, ball-making)!