These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a tasty mix of sausage, cheese, and a hint of garlic. They’re the perfect snack for any gathering and so easy to whip up!
Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one! I always serve them warm and watch them disappear. They’re great as a party treat or just for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Choose between mild or spicy sausage based on your taste preference. You can substitute it with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is best for its strong flavor. If you don’t have sharp cheddar, feel free to use medium or mild cheddar. Mixing in a bit of pepper jack can add some heat!
Bisquick Baking Mix: This is a key ingredient for texture. If you don’t have Bisquick, try using all-purpose flour combined with baking powder (1 cup flour + 1 ½ tsp baking powder).
Parmesan Cheese: The Parmesan adds extra flavor. If you’re out, you can skip it or replace it with Pecorino Romano. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan option to sprinkle in some cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture with Sausage Balls?
Getting the right texture for your Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls is crucial for a satisfying bite. Follow these tips:
- Do not overmix the sausage mixture; just combine until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Keep your hands slightly wet when forming the balls to prevent sticking.
- Spacing them out on the baking sheet helps them cook evenly, so don’t crowd them!
Keep an eye on them while baking. If they turn golden brown before the time is up, trust your instincts and take them out.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ranch dressing or dipping sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. These savory treats will be ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the sausage balls will cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Bisquick baking mix, and all the seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If you want extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese as well. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture will be a bit sticky, but don’t worry—that’s what you want!
3. Shape the Balls:
Now comes the fun part! Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. This spacing allows the sausage balls to cook evenly without sticking together.
4. Bake Your Sausage Balls:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a nice golden brown color and for the sausage balls to be cooked all the way through. They will smell amazing!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done baking, remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This way, they’re easier to handle. Serve them warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or anytime you crave something cheesy and savory. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Yes! You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Just ensure the sausage is fully cooked before mixing.
Can I Make These Sausage Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just shape the balls and pop them in the oven as usual!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.
What Can I Serve with Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls?
These sausage balls are great on their own, but they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or hot sauce. You can also serve them with fresh veggies or a simple salad for a complete snack spread!