What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These sausage balls are a crowd-pleaser that’s super easy to make and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love them because they’re flavorful, quick to prepare, and always disappear fast.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, these sausage balls come together in no time, making them ideal for last-minute snacks or meals.
- Versatile and Delicious: Whether you serve them for breakfast, as an appetizer, or even a party snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them ahead of time and bake them when needed, saving you stress and time on busy days.
Recipe
These homemade sausage balls are a classic appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. They’re cheesy, savory, and packed with flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or hot)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the sausage, cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until fully combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
- For extra spice, use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Letting the mixture chill for 15–20 minutes before rolling can make shaping easier.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 30 sausage balls.
Nutrition
Here’s the nutrition information for homemade sausage balls:
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade sausage balls with creamy cheese dips; they add a rich, tangy contrast that’s irresistible. A fresh salad on the side brings a crisp, light balance to the meal, making it feel complete. These combinations keep things simple but satisfying every time I serve them.
Cheese Dips
A creamy cheese dip can take your homemade sausage balls from tasty to irresistible, and I’ve got a few favorites that pair perfectly. My go-to is a sharp cheddar dip with a hint of garlic and a splash of hot sauce for a little kick. It’s simple to whip up and adds a tangy edge to every bite. For something milder, I love a creamy ranch cheese dip, blending cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and shredded mozzarella. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll make a spicy queso with jalapeños and melted cheddar. Each dip complements the savory sausage balls, making them even more addictive.
Fresh Salad
When I’m serving homemade sausage balls, I like to balance their richness with something light and invigorating, and that’s where a fresh salad comes in. A crisp mix of greens—like romaine, spinach, or arugula—adds a rejuvenating crunch. Toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of red onion for brightness. A simple vinaigrette with lemon or balsamic keeps it light but flavorful. Sometimes, I’ll add avocado or nuts for extra texture. It’s the perfect side to cut through the savory sausage balls, making the meal feel balanced and satisfying without weighing you down.
