Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are the ultimate comfort food, combining savory sausage with cheese and spices to create irresistible bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer at a gathering or a tasty snack at home, these little morsels are quick to make and even quicker to disappear. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
– 1 pound of breakfast sausage
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of baking mix (like Bisquick)
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 sausage balls. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 sausage ball) contains approximately:
– Calories: 120
– Protein: 7g
– Fat: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Fiber: 0g
This information is based on one sausage ball.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Add the baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl.
4. Pour in the milk and mix until just combined.
5. Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheese types, such as pepper jack for added heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Sausage balls pair well with a variety of dips such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. They also make a great addition to a cheese platter or can be served alongside fresh vegetables for a balanced snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Sausage balls can also be frozen; just make sure to cool them completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overmix the sausage mixture, or the texture will be tough.
– Ensure your sausage is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
– Avoid crowding the baking sheet, as this can cause uneven cooking.
– Make sure to preheat the oven; otherwise, the sausage balls may not cook evenly.
– If they are too dry, add a little more milk next time.
Helpful Tips
– Use gloves when mixing the sausage for easier cleanup.
– Experiment with spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
– For extra crunch, add crushed crackers to the mixture.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.
How do I know when they are done?
Sausage balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (70°C).
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage balls and refrigerate them before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if they go into the oven cold.
What can I serve with sausage balls?
They pair well with dips like ranch, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or veggie platter.
Are sausage balls gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free baking mix, these sausage balls can be made gluten-free. Check the ingredients of all products used.
Conclusion
Sausage balls are a delightful and versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many settings. They are easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavors in every bite!
Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of baking mix like Bisquick
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl.
- Pour in the milk and mix until just combined.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
