Classic Sausage Balls

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! These Classic Sausage Balls are a beloved favorite in my home. The combination of savory sausage and cheesy goodness makes them irresistible, and they vanish as quickly as I can set them out. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, having friends over for game day, or just need a quick breakfast option during busy weekdays, these little bites are sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just a few wholesome staples that you probably already have in your pantry. And believe me, once you take that first bite of warm, cheesy goodness, you’ll understand why this recipe is one of my go-tos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes total prep time, you can have delicious sausage balls ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These bites are perfect for all ages. Kids love the cheesy flavor, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Versatile Snack: Whether served as an appetizer or a hearty breakfast, these sausage balls fit right in for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for meal prep!
• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of savory sausage and sharp cheddar creates an amazing taste that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Classic Sausage Balls is super simple! You likely have most of them on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sausage Balls

• 1 lb ground beef breakfast sausage (at room temperature)
• 2 cups biscuit/baking mix (like Bisquick)
• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

Variations

One of the best parts about these sausage balls is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of beef sausage, try using turkey or chicken breakfast sausage for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick that adds extra excitement to each bite.
• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to use pepper jack or even mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
• Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives into the mixture to give your sausage balls an extra pop of flavor.

How to Make Classic Sausage Balls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your sausage balls will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef breakfast sausage with the biscuit mix until everything is well mixed. It’s important to get this step right because it helps create that delightful texture we all love in our classic sausage balls. Once combined, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. This cheesy addition makes every bite absolutely scrumptious!

Step 3: Roll Into Balls

Now it’s time to shape our mixture! Roll spoonfuls of the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced about 1 inch apart so they can cook evenly without sticking together.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven! Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown on top and cooked through. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before serving warm. If you’d like, offer some dipping sauces alongside—ranch dressing or barbecue sauce work beautifully!

Enjoy making these Classic Sausage Balls; I promise they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Sausage Balls

Making the perfect sausage balls can be a breeze with just a few simple tips to elevate your dish!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your sausage and cheese to room temperature helps them blend together more easily, resulting in a smoother texture.
• Don’t overmix: Gently mixing the ingredients is key to keeping the sausage balls tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so combine until just mixed.
• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for added flavor and creaminess.
• Adjust the size: If you prefer smaller or larger bites, adjust the size of the balls accordingly. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.
• Add spices for extra flavor: Consider incorporating spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even red pepper flakes to give your sausage balls an exciting kick!

How to Serve Classic Sausage Balls

These savory delights are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Dipping sauces: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast alongside sausage balls, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a sweet contrast to the savory sausage balls and brings a vibrant touch to your table.
• Roasted vegetables: Pair these sausage balls with roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a healthy and colorful side.
• Hash browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and are a classic breakfast staple that complements the richness of the sausage balls beautifully.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Classic Sausage Balls are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Classic Sausage Balls are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy them fresh or store them for later. Here’s how to keep them at their best.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sausage balls to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place completely cooled sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, and label with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated sausage balls: Preheat oven to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen sausage balls: No need to thaw! Bake straight from the freezer at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Classic Sausage Balls.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey breakfast sausage for a leaner option while still maintaining great flavor.

How do I make Classic Sausage Balls gluten-free?

To make these sausage balls gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free baking mix instead of traditional biscuit mix.

What can I serve with Classic Sausage Balls?

These savory bites pair perfectly with various dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce, making them ideal for gatherings!

How long do Classic Sausage Balls last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, Classic Sausage Balls will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Classic Sausage Balls as much as I do! They’re not just tasty; they’re also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a fun appetizer for game day, these little bites bring everyone together. Enjoy making them and sharing them with your loved ones—happy cooking!