Introduction
Welcome to a cozy culinary adventure with these delightful sausage balls! Perfect for gatherings, game day, or a simple snack, these bite-sized treats are bursting with flavor. Each ball is a savory blend of ground sausage and rich cheddar cheese, creating an irresistible combination that will have you reaching for just one more. They’re easy to make and sure to impress, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: About 24 sausage balls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help keep your sausage balls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage and shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese adds a lovely richness to the mixture.
- Add the baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika to the sausage mixture. This combination of spices will elevate the flavors and add a delightful kick.
- Pour in the milk and mix until all ingredients are well combined. You can use your hands to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Using your hands, form small balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet. This step is where the fun begins!
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them, as nothing beats that warm, inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to experiment with the spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat or swapping in different types of cheese can provide a new twist to this classic recipe. Also, these sausage balls freeze beautifully. Just bake them, let them cool, and pack them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven.
Cooking Techniques
To ensure even baking, try to make your sausage balls uniform in size. This way, they will cook through perfectly and attain that beautiful golden brown hue. Additionally, if you want extra crispness, consider placing the baking sheet on the bottom rack of the oven for the last few minutes of baking.
FAQ
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage? Absolutely! Turkey sausage works great and will yield a slightly lighter flavor.
Can I make them ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mixture, form the balls, and refrigerate them for a day or freeze them for longer. Just bake them straight from the fridge or freezer when you’re ready!
What should I serve with these sausage balls? They pair wonderfully with a dip like ranch or mustard. They also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board.
Conclusion
These sausage balls are a pure delight, combining simplicity with deliciousness. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or a satisfying snack for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and let the aroma fill your kitchen as you bake up this savory treat. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!