If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion, these 4-ingredient sausage balls are the answer. They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are always a hit at parties, family gatherings, or even as a snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sausage (can use spicy): Choose your preferred sausage, whether it’s mild, spicy, or flavored. The sausage is the main source of flavor and protein in this recipe.
- 2 cups Bisquick: Bisquick, a popular baking mix, is what gives these sausage balls their fluffy, bread-like texture. It’s a combination of flour, shortening, salt, and baking powder, making it a convenient all-in-one ingredient.
- 4 cups cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a rich, creamy, and slightly sharp flavor to the sausage balls. Shredding your own cheese is recommended as it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- 1/4 cup milk: Milk helps to bind the ingredients together, making the mixture easier to form into balls and ensuring that they stay moist during baking.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the sausage balls from sticking.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, Bisquick, and cheddar cheese. You can use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly. The heat from your hands will help to blend everything together, especially the cheese.
- Add the 1/4 cup of milk to the mixture. The milk will help the ingredients come together into a cohesive dough. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add an extra tablespoon of milk at a time until the dough is easy to work with.
- Form the Sausage Balls:
- Once the mixture is well combined, begin rolling it into 1-inch balls using your hands. Try to keep the size consistent so that they bake evenly.
- Place each sausage ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
- Bake the Sausage Balls:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. The outside should be slightly crispy, while the inside remains juicy and cheesy.
- To ensure they are fully cooked, you can cut one open to check that the sausage is no longer pink in the center.
- Serve:
- Once the sausage balls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This will help them firm up a bit before serving.
- Transfer the sausage balls to a serving platter. They are delicious served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve these sausage balls with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.
- Appetizer Spread: Include the sausage balls as part of an appetizer spread alongside other finger foods like vegetable crudités, cheese and crackers, and stuffed mushrooms.
- Breakfast Addition: These sausage balls also make a great addition to a brunch buffet, pairing well with eggs, pancakes, or a fruit salad.
Tips for the Best Sausage Balls:
- Sausage Variety: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy sausage adds a nice kick, while maple-flavored sausage brings a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the sharp cheddar cheese.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can mix in other cheeses such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a smoked cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Freezing Option: Sausage balls can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to 3 months. Simply form the balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
These 4-ingredient sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any gathering. With minimal prep time and ingredients, they’re an easy and flavorful option whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick snack. The combination of savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and the fluffy texture from the Bisquick creates a delightful bite that everyone will love. Plus, their versatility allows you to experiment with flavors and cheeses to suit your personal taste. Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and satisfying sausage balls any time you need a quick and easy dish!
