The Best Sausage Balls Recipe
Prep time: 35mins | 24 sausage balls
If you’re searching for a quick, comforting, and flavorful appetizer, sausage balls are always a winning choice. They’re warm, cheesy, slightly crispy on the outside, and perfectly tender on the inside. Best of all, they require only a few basic ingredients and just a little preparation time. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a game-day menu, or simply craving a savory snack, sausage balls are a classic you can make anytime.
What Are Sausage Balls?
Sausage balls are small, bite-sized appetizers made from a simple mixture of ground sausage, cheese, and baking mix. They’re rolled into round shapes and baked until golden and delicious. These little snacks have become a Southern classic, often served during holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, but they’re just as popular for potlucks, breakfast buffets, and parties all year long.
What makes sausage balls so loved is their balance of flavor: slightly spicy sausage, creamy cheddar cheese, and a soft, biscuit-like texture.
Ingredients
To make classic, fluffy sausage balls, you only need these simple ingredients:
Ground sausage (regular, mild, or hot depending on your taste)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Baking mix (like Bisquick or any all-purpose baking mix)
Optional add-ins: cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, cayenne pepper
You can easily customize your sausage balls to match your flavor style..
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add:
1 pound ground sausage
2 cups shredded cheddar
2 cups baking mix
Use your hands to mix everything well. If the mixture feels too dry, add one or two tablespoons of milk.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1½ inches in size. Place them evenly on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the sausage balls turn golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Sausage balls taste best straight from the oven, but they’re delicious at room temperature too.
Tips for Making the Best Sausage Balls
Here are some expert tips to help you get perfect results every time:
Use freshly shredded cheese. It melts better and gives each bite more flavor.
Let the sausage soften. Cold sausage is harder to mix, so leave it out for 10–15 minutes.
Don’t overpack the mixture. Too much baking mix can make sausage balls dry.
Add cream cheese for extra moisture. A few tablespoons help create softer, richer balls.
Try spicy sausage. For extra heat, choose “hot” sausage or mix in cayenne pepper.
Delicious Variations to Try
Sausage balls are incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ideas:
Cheddar-Jalapeño Sausage Balls – spicy, cheesy, and bold
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – ultra soft and rich
Italian Sausage Balls – swap cheddar for mozzarella and add Italian herbs
Breakfast Sausage Balls – add scrambled eggs or use maple sausage
Herb Garlic Sausage Balls – perfect for parties and dipping
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 sausage ball)
- Calories90 kcal
- Protein4 g
- Carbohydrates4 g
- Fat7 g
- Saturated Fat3 g
- Cholesterol20 mg
- Sodium210 mg
- Fiber0 g
- Sugar1 g
FAQ
Q1. Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the ingredients, shape the balls, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2. Do I need to cook the sausage first?
No. Raw sausage is used so everything binds properly while baking.
Q3. Can I use low-fat sausage?
You can, but the texture may be drier. Regular sausage gives the best flavor and moisture.
Q4. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely — mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack work great.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy, comforting, and flavorful snacks, sausage balls are the perfect pick. They take almost no time, require minimal ingredients, and deliver big flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a simple family snack, this recipe is reliable, flexible, and always delicious.
If you found this sausage balls guide helpful, try making a batch today and share your results! And for more simple, tasty recipes, be sure to explore our website or bookmark this page for later.
