Quick Description
Savory, cheesy, and bite-sized sausage balls baked until golden and crispy. They’re a crowd favorite at parties, easy to make with just a few ingredients, and naturally high in protein.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 30–35 sausage balls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork sausage (spicy or mild)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine sausage, cheddar cheese, baking mix, Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Mix well with hands until evenly combined (the mixture will be thick).
Step 3: Shape Balls
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
Additional Notes
- For extra cheesy flavor, mix cheddar + mozzarella.
- Add chopped jalapeños for spice.
- If mixture is dry, add 2–3 tbsp milk.
Dietary Info (per serving, approx. 2 balls):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbs: 4 g
- Fat: 9 g
Ingredient Substitutions
- Low-carb/keto: Use almond flour instead of baking mix.
- Lean option: Use ground turkey sausage.
- Cheese swap: Try pepper jack or Gouda for a flavor twist.
Variations
- Breakfast Style: Serve with scrambled eggs and hot sauce.
- Italian Style: Add Italian herbs + mozzarella, serve with marinara dip.
- Game Day Style: Add bacon bits and serve with ranch or BBQ dip.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes to bake time.
FAQs
Q: Can I make them without baking mix?
Yes, replace with 1 cup flour + 1 tsp baking powder + pinch of salt.
Q: Can I air fry them?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until golden.
Q: What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or sriracha mayo are all great choices.
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These cheesy sausage balls are quick, protein-packed, and dangerously addictive. Make a double batch — they’ll disappear fast!
