If you’re searching for a snack that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, this Cheddar Sausage Balls Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little bites combine sharp cheddar cheese’s creamy richness with hearty sausage and a tender, flaky texture from biscuit mix, making each mouthful irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, game day, or a casual gathering, this dish hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of well-chosen ingredients is all it takes to create these delicious cheddar sausage balls. Each element plays a key role in bringing the dish together, from the cheesy depth to the savory sausage and that perfect tender crumb from the baking mix.
- 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded for the best melt and punch of sharpness.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage: Provides juicy, savory flavor that’s the heart of the recipe.
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix: Adds lightness and the perfect flaky crumb.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps bring the dough together and adds moisture.
- 1 Tablespoon dried chives: Infuses a subtle herby brightness that lifts the whole flavor profile.
How to Make Cheddar Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s perfectly ready to bake your sausage balls to golden, crispy perfection while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, milk, and dried chives. The magic really happens here as these simple ingredients come together to form a flavorful, cohesive dough that’s easy to handle.
Step 3: Shape into balls
With clean hands, roll the mixture into about 24 equal-sized balls. Placing them evenly spaced on a baking sheet gives them room to bake up beautifully without sticking together.
Step 4: Bake until golden
Pop the sausage balls in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the color as they cook — you want a gorgeous golden exterior, and the sausage should be cooked through for that perfect bite.
How to Serve Cheddar Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting touch, sprinkle extra dried chives or fresh herbs like parsley on top before serving. You can also offer a side of tangy mustard or spicy ketchup for dipping, which pairs wonderfully with the cheddar’s richness and the sausage’s savoriness.
Side Dishes
These sausage balls are incredibly versatile. They shine with breakfast sides like scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad but also complement hearty soups or crisp green salads for a light lunch or snack option.
Creative Ways to Present
Try skewering a few sausage balls on colorful toothpicks for easy appetizer platters, or serve them warm in small ramekins with an assortment of dipping sauces. They also make fantastic party snacks when paired with cheese cubes and olives for a charming charcuterie board addition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your cheddar sausage balls, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal addition the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these sausage balls either before or after baking. Freeze them on a tray first so they don’t stick together, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Frozen sausage balls keep well for up to 2 months, making them a convenient, ready-to-bake option.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated sausage balls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. For frozen ones, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain their tender, cheesy goodness without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Cheddar Sausage Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar offers a classic and bold flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Just be mindful of moisture content, as it can affect the dough texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative to keep the savory flavor while making it vegetarian. Make sure the alternative you choose has a similar fat content for the best results.
What biscuit baking mix works best?
Any good-quality biscuit baking mix will work for this recipe. Look for one that’s lightly seasoned and not too dense, so your sausage balls turn out crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, feel free to mix the dough and shape the balls a few hours before baking. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake, which also helps the flavors meld beautifully.
How do I know when the sausage balls are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color on the outside and ensure the sausage is fully cooked inside. Baking for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F usually achieves this, but you can slice one open to check if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about snacks that bring together cheesy, meaty goodness in bite-sized form, and this Cheddar Sausage Balls Recipe does just that with charm and ease. Whether you’re whipping these up for a busy family breakfast or a lively get-together, they’re sure to disappear fast. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm smiles that come with sharing one of my all-time favorite dishes!
Print
Cheddar Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 sausage balls (about 6 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously cheesy and savory sausage balls made with sharp cheddar, ground pork sausage, and biscuit baking mix, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon dried chives
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sausage balls.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ground pork sausage, biscuit baking mix, milk, and dried chives thoroughly until a uniform dough forms.
- Form balls: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 24 evenly sized balls, then place them spaced apart on a large baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sausage balls for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the sausage is fully cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the sausage balls hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Ensure the sausage is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Can be served with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
- These sausage balls can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh when needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
