Sausage cheese balls are a fun and tasty snack! They are made with savory sausage, gooey cheese, and a bit of biscuit mix, which makes them super easy to whip up.
These little bites are perfect for parties or just munching while watching TV. I love the cheesy goodness in every bite—it’s hard to eat just one! 🧀😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage, depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well as a substitute.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can also use mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a little kick. Consider a lactose-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Biscuit Baking Mix: If you don’t have baking mix like Bisquick, you can make your own by combining flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Just use 1.5 cups of flour, 2 tbsp of baking powder, and a bit of salt to mimic the mix.
Milk: Any milk works, but for a richer flavor, try buttermilk. Non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk can be substituted if you have dietary restrictions.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Sausage Cheese Balls?
The key to delicious sausage cheese balls is cooking them just right. Here’s a quick guide to help you get the perfect texture and flavor:
- Mix Well: Make sure to combine the ingredients thoroughly. This helps the sausage and cheese mix evenly.
- Portion Size: Aim for about 1 inch in diameter for each ball. This size allows for even cooking without drying out.
- Baking Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. A well-heated oven helps them brown nicely.
- Check for Doneness: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’ve turned golden brown and the sausage is cooked through. Inserting a thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
- Cooling Time: Let them cool a bit after baking. This helps set their shape and makes them easier to enjoy!
How to Make Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, for a total time of approximately 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy snack or appetizer that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, you can prepare the other ingredients. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with mini muffin liners to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sausage:
In a large mixing bowl, take your breakfast sausage and crumble it up using your hands or a fork until there are no large clumps. Make sure it’s broken up well so it blends nicely with the other ingredients.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and biscuit baking mix to the bowl with the sausage. Then, pour in the milk. If you’re using garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, add those too. Mix everything together until it’s well combined; the mixture will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape.
4. Form the Balls:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls—about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball into the prepared mini muffin tin. Don’t worry if they are not perfectly round; these are meant to be a little rustic!
5. Bake the Sausage Cheese Balls:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be golden brown on top, and they should be fully cooked through when you cut one open (the sausage should not be pink). Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the sausage cheese balls from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes. Then, carefully take them out and serve warm. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer all on their own!
Enjoy your delicious and cheesy sausage balls—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a favorite for its flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sausage cheese balls and form them, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy storage. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for that fresh, baked taste.
Can I Substitute the Biscuit Baking Mix?
Yes! If you don’t have biscuit baking mix, you can make your own by mixing 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This will work just as well for your sausage cheese balls!
