Sausage Balls Recipe

Sausage Balls are one of those savory snacks that hit all the right notes—perfectly cheesy, packed with flavor, and just a little bit spicy. Whether you’re hosting a holiday get-together, prepping for a game-day party, or simply want a quick, comforting bite, these sausage balls are always a hit. The best part? They require only four simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Let me tell you, once you taste them fresh out of the oven, it’s hard to stop at just one. I’ve made these so many times, and they always disappear from the table in record time.

Now, let me tell you why these sausage balls are a little special in my kitchen. It all started one snowy afternoon a couple of years ago when I wanted to whip up something easy but filling for my family. We had a box of Bisquick, some cheese, and sausage sitting around, so I figured I’d try this recipe I found scribbled in my grandmother’s old notebook. Let’s just say, what started as an experiment quickly turned into a family favorite! There’s something about that mix of sharp cheddar and savory sausage that keeps everyone coming back for more, and trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while these bake is so irresistible.

this RECIPE

My go-to snack for any occasion

These sausage balls bring back such cozy memories, especially around the holidays. I can still remember the first time I made a batch for a holiday dinner. The kitchen was filled with the smell of melted cheese and sizzling sausage, and it felt like the most welcoming warmth on a cold winter night. We were all gathered around, sipping hot cocoa, and the sausage balls became the star of the snack table. Ever since then, they’ve been a holiday tradition. Plus, they’re super easy to adapt and make for different occasions—whether it’s brunch with friends or a potluck at work. What I love most is how you can make them ahead, freeze, and bake whenever you’re ready!

A little backstory on sausage balls

Sausage balls may sound simple, but they’ve got a fun history behind them. They’re a Southern staple in the U.S., often served as appetizers during gatherings, especially around the holidays. The recipe is thought to have originated in the mid-20th century when Bisquick became a household item. The convenience of the pre-mixed baking blend made it easier for home cooks to quickly whip up bread-like snacks, and the combination of sausage and cheese was just too good to pass up. Over time, people have added their own twists to the recipe, from different types of cheese to varying levels of spice. They’ve become one of those comfort foods that everyone has their own version of—and they never go out of style!

Let’s talk ingredients: the cheesy, the spicy, and the oh-so-good

Bisquick

Ah, Bisquick—this iconic pantry staple makes these sausage balls incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a blend of flour, baking powder, and shortening, so it serves as the binding agent in this recipe, holding everything together. If you’re out of Bisquick, you can make a simple substitute by mixing flour, baking powder, and a bit of salt. I’ve also tried a gluten-free baking mix when I was making these for a friend with celiac, and they turned out just as delicious!

Cheddar cheese

The sharpness of cheddar cheese really elevates these sausage balls. It melts beautifully, binding with the Bisquick and sausage, giving you that perfect gooey, cheesy texture. You can experiment with different types of cheese too—I’ve used Monterey Jack and pepper jack for a little extra kick. When buying cheddar, opt for a block and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but it’s often coated in anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts.

Sausage (spicy)

Sausage is where you get the flavor punch in this recipe, and the spicier, the better (at least for me!). The key is to find a sausage that’s full of seasoning and spice, as it’ll bring so much depth to the balls. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can always use a milder version or even swap it for a poultry sausage. For a vegetarian twist, I’ve used plant-based sausage alternatives, and they turned out surprisingly tasty.

Milk

The milk adds moisture and helps bind everything together. It also makes the sausage balls less dense, giving them a fluffier texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, don’t worry—you can easily substitute with almond milk or any other non-dairy milk.

Kitchen gear: what you need (and what you can totally skip)

When it comes to making sausage balls, you don’t need anything too fancy in terms of equipment, which is always a win in my book!

• Mixing bowl: You’ll need a big enough bowl to mix all the ingredients without making a mess. Trust me, these sausage balls can be a bit sticky to mix by hand!
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it helps prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
• Small scoop or spoon: If you want uniform-sized sausage balls (and who doesn’t?), using a small cookie scoop or spoon works wonders.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking. If you don’t have one, a regular oven-safe tray works fine, just make sure it’s lined well.

Step-by-step: my foolproof method (and a few hard-learned lessons)

1. Mix the ingredients: Start by adding your Bisquick, cheddar cheese, spicy sausage, and milk into a large mixing bowl. It might seem a bit dry at first, but keep mixing! I usually get in there with my hands after a while—this helps combine everything evenly. If the mixture is too crumbly, don’t panic! Just add a splash more milk.
2. Form the balls: Once the ingredients are well combined, start forming the mixture into small balls. I use a small cookie scoop to make them all the same size, but your hands work just fine too. Aim for about 1-2 inch-sized balls for even cooking.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the sausage balls about 2 inches apart on the sheet to give them room to expand a bit. Pop them into the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch.
4. Let them cool (if you can wait): This is the hardest step! The smell will be tempting, but let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before diving in. Trust me, the flavors are even better when they’ve had a moment to settle.

Variations and adaptations: spice it up or keep it cool!

• Gluten-free: As I mentioned earlier, using a gluten-free baking mix works perfectly in this recipe. I’ve done it a few times and the texture is just as fluffy.
• Vegetarian: I’ve also tested these with plant-based sausage. If you’re using a veggie sausage, just make sure it’s one with good flavor and spices, since that’s where a lot of the taste comes from.
• Cheese options: Swap out cheddar for something like pepper jack if you like an extra spicy kick, or go for mozzarella if you prefer something milder.
• Add-ins: You can toss in some diced jalapeños for more heat, or even a bit of chopped green onion for a pop of freshness.

How to serve these up in style

For presentation, I like to pile the sausage balls high on a wooden serving board with some fresh herbs scattered around. Adding a small dish of dipping sauce—like a tangy honey mustard or a cool ranch—on the side makes them even more fun to eat. If you’re serving these at a party, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onion gives them a little extra pop of color.

beverages to pair with sausage balls

Looking for the perfect drink pairing? Here are a few options that go beautifully with the cheesy, savory flavors of sausage balls:

• Iced tea: A refreshing, lightly sweetened iced tea balances out the richness of the sausage balls.
• Sparkling lemonade: The tangy sweetness of lemonade, especially with some added bubbles, provides a great contrast to the spicy sausage.
• Apple cider: If you’re making these around the holidays, a warm cup of apple cider is a cozy and delicious pairing.

Storing and reheating tips for leftovers (if there are any!)

Sausage balls store surprisingly well, which makes them a great make-ahead option. You can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just heat them in short 20-second bursts to avoid drying them out.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe makes about 24-30 sausage balls, but it’s super easy to scale up or down. If you’re making a larger batch, just double the ingredients, but remember to spread them out over a couple of baking sheets to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re cutting the recipe in half, keep an eye on them in the oven since they may cook a bit faster.

Wrapping up: you’ve gotta try these!

There’s something so satisfying about these sausage balls—they’re simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is a no-fail crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it, and let me know how they turn out for you!

Frequently asked questions

Can I make these sausage balls gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick to make these sausage balls gluten-free without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can mix and form the sausage balls, then freeze them unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, just bake them from frozen—add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! While spicy sausage adds a great kick, you can opt for mild sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative for different flavor profiles.

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