Sausage Cheese Balls are a classic and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a tasty snack. Made with ground sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and a few simple ingredients, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup buttermilk baking mix
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Cheese Ball Mixture
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground sausage, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup of buttermilk baking mix, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Mix Well:
- Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients until they are well combined and form a cohesive mixture.
Step 3: Form the Sausage Cheese Balls
- Shape the Balls:
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Bake the Sausage Cheese Balls
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage cheese balls are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the sausage cheese balls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or mustard.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Sausage: Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. You can also try different flavors of sausage for variety.
- Cheese: For a different flavor, try using a mix of cheddar and another cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
- Buttermilk Baking Mix: Bisquick or another brand of buttermilk baking mix works well in this recipe.
Variations
Spicy Sausage Cheese Balls
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb and Cheese Sausage Balls
- Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to the mixture for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Sausage Cheese Balls
- Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of the buttermilk baking mix to make these sausage cheese balls gluten-free.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these sausage cheese balls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sausage cheese balls and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover sausage cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage? A: It’s best to use raw sausage for this recipe to ensure the sausage cheese balls hold together well and cook evenly.
Q: What can I serve with sausage cheese balls? A: These sausage cheese balls are great on their own but can be served with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Q: Can I use other types of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute the ground sausage with ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the meat.
Sausage Cheese Balls are a savory and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavor and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these sausage cheese balls are always a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this tasty treat with your family and friends!
