Original Sausage Balls
Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals
A classic appetizer that's always a hit at parties, these Original Sausage Balls are savory, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make.
These Original Sausage Balls are a nostalgic treat that many remember from family gatherings and holiday parties. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch that will impress your guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory and satisfying with a perfect balance of flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings
- Versatile: great as an appetizer, snack, or breakfast option
A Party Favorite
When it comes to appetizers, few dishes can rival the popularity of sausage balls. These bite-sized delights are a staple at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Their savory flavor combined with a cheesy texture makes them irresistible, ensuring they quickly disappear from the platter. With their simple ingredient list and straightforward preparation, they are ideal for both novice cooks and culinary experts alike.
Whether you're hosting a big game day get-together or a cozy holiday gathering, Original Sausage Balls are sure to please your guests. Their versatility allows them to fit seamlessly into any menu, making them a go-to option for entertaining. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and reheated, providing convenience for busy hosts.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the greatest advantages of Original Sausage Balls is their versatility. They can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even breakfast options. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra punch, or enjoy them plain for a classic taste. No matter how you serve them, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
These sausage balls are not just for special occasions; they also make for a satisfying snack any time of day. Enjoy them for breakfast alongside eggs or as a quick and hearty snack between meals. Their portability makes them an excellent choice for picnics or outdoor events, allowing you to indulge in delicious flavors on the go.
Tips for the Best Sausage Balls
For the best results, use high-quality sausage, as it significantly impacts the flavor of the sausage balls. A well-seasoned breakfast sausage will provide the rich taste that pairs beautifully with the cheese and spices. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
Another tip is to ensure your mixture is well-combined but not overmixed, as this can lead to tough sausage balls. The goal is to maintain a tender texture while ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. Lastly, make sure to space the sausage balls evenly on the baking sheet to promote even cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Original Sausage Balls
- 1 pound of sausage (breakfast sausage works best)
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of biscuit mix
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before shaping into balls.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sausage, cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the Balls
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Bake
Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
These sausage balls are best served warm and can be enjoyed with your favorite dipping sauces.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often rare!), storing sausage balls is simple. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When freezing, consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior while ensuring the inside remains deliciously moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be cautious not to overheat, as this may result in a chewy texture.
Variations and Add-Ins
While the Original Sausage Balls recipe is fantastic as-is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporating cooked bacon pieces for an extra layer of flavor. Herbs like parsley or chives can also be mixed in for a fresh twist.
For a healthier option, you can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner protein without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, gluten-free biscuit mix is available for those with dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to enjoy these tasty bites. Don't hesitate to get creative and find your perfect combination!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage can be used as a lighter alternative, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
→ How do I store leftover sausage balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
→ Can I freeze these sausage balls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked sausage balls. Just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing them in a single layer.
→ What can I serve with sausage balls?
These sausage balls pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Original Sausage Balls
A classic appetizer that's always a hit at parties, these Original Sausage Balls are savory, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Nourishing Comfort Meals
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 balls
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Original Sausage Balls
- 1 pound of sausage (breakfast sausage works best)
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of biscuit mix
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the sausage, cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g