There’s something undeniably comforting about a tray of golden, cheesy sausage balls fresh from the oven. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning, a holiday brunch, or just one of those days when you need a little extra warmth, these bite-sized delights never fail to bring smiles to the table. I first fell in love with them at a friend’s potluck years ago—one bite, and I was hooked. The perfect balance of savory sausage, melty cheese, and a tender biscuit-like texture? Pure magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these sausage balls irresistibly delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage – Go for a mild or spicy variety depending on your taste. I love using Jimmy Dean for its reliable flavor.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The sharper, the better! It gives that bold, cheesy punch.
• 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick) – This keeps the texture light and fluffy.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – A little extra umami never hurt anyone.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Because everything’s better with garlic.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Just a pinch to balance the richness.
• ½ cup milk – Helps bind everything together without drying out.

How to Make Cheesy Sausage Balls

Now, let’s get to the fun part—bringing these cheesy bites to life! Don’t worry, it’s as easy as mixing, rolling, and baking.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar, baking mix, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together—don’t be afraid to get a little messy!
3. Gradually add the milk, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be slightly sticky but hold its shape when rolled.
4. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball between your palms. Aim for uniformity so they bake evenly. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through. A little crisp on the outside is perfection!
6. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving—trust me, resisting the cheesy aroma is the hardest part.

Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up. And if you’re short on time, a cookie scoop makes rolling a breeze!

Cheesy Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Comfort Bite

There’s something magical about the combination of sausage, cheese, and a little bit of spice rolled into a perfect, bite-sized snack. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, need a quick appetizer for holiday gatherings, or just craving a cozy treat, these Cheesy Sausage Balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into some pro tips, variations, and everything else you need to make them shine!

Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Cold sausage or cheese can make the dough harder to mix. Let them sit out for about 15 minutes before blending.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until the ingredients come together—overmixing can make the texture dense.
• Chill the dough: If the mixture feels too sticky, pop it in the fridge for 20 minutes to make rolling easier.
• Uniform sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure even cooking and perfectly round balls.

Delicious Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some tasty twists:

• Spicy kick: Swap mild sausage for hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese swaps: Try pepper jack for extra heat or swap half the cheddar for Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick.
• Herb-infused: Fold in fresh chopped chives, parsley, or rosemary for a fresh twist.

What to Serve with Cheesy Sausage Balls

These little bites are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with:

• Marinara or ranch dipping sauce
• A crisp green salad for a light meal
• Pickles and olives for a charcuterie-style spread
• Warm honey mustard or spicy aioli for dipping

Storage & Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds (though the oven keeps them crisper).

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix the dough, shape the balls, and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.

Why are my sausage balls dry?
Overbaking or using lean sausage can cause dryness. Stick to the recommended bake time and opt for regular (not low-fat) sausage.

Can I use homemade biscuit mix?
Yes! Substitute 2 cups flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup shortening for the Bisquick.

How do I keep them from spreading?
Chilling the dough before baking helps. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet—give them space to puff.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Cheesy Sausage Balls have stood the test of time—they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making them for a party or just because, these little bites are sure to bring smiles (and maybe some recipe requests!). Whip up a batch, pour your favorite drink, and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness. Happy cooking!