Sausage cheese balls is a yummy, kinda messy snack that lots of people in the US put on their tables. It mixes bold flavored sausage with gooey cheese into tiny balls so you can just grab one and pop it in your mouth. They work for casual hangs or big holiday parties, and before you know it, they’re gone because everyone loves em.
Theyre also crazy versitile. You can throw in spices, herbs or even chopped veggies if you want. That means you can make them mild for the kids or super spicy for folks who like a kick. No matter if you want something a little healthier or just extra indulgent, sausage cheese balls can be changed to fit any taste or event.
Introduction
This snack got a special spot on a lotta tables cause it’s simple but so good. You mix seasoned sausage and cheese, roll it into little balls, then bake til they’re golden. They’re perfect for game nights, potlucks, or just watchin tv with friends. And you dont even need forks – they’re finger food all the way.
Another thing that makes them a hit is you can tweak em however you like. Add jalapenos for heat, swap cheese types, or try gluten-free mix if thats your thing. Kids and grownups both love em since you can make em sweet, spicy, or plain cheesy.
History of Sausage Cheese Balls
The idea of sausage cheese balls come from the South, where people been mixing simple foods for years. Back in the 1970s, potluck cookbooks started showin up with this recipe, and it quickly spread. Families all over added their own twist—some used extra garlic, others mixed in bacon bits.
Different regions even have theyre own spin. In Texas you might find some with real spicy Cajun seasoning, while in other states they serve em with special dipping sauces. No matter the changes, the main duo of sausage and cheese has stayed the classic favorite that brings back memories.
Ingredients
To whip up these tasty bites you only need a few simple things:
- Sausage: Breakfast sausage works best but pick mild or spicy based on your mood.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic but you can use pepper jack or mozzarella.
- Baking mix: Bisquick is easiest, or use a gluten-free flour mix if you need.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt do wonders.
- Optional adds: Chopped jalapeños, fresh parsley or chives, even crumbled bacon.
Recipe for Sausage Cheese Balls
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- 2 cups baking mix (Bisquick)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: diced jalapeños, fresh herbs
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a big bowl, mix the sausage and shredded cheese til kinda blended.
- Add the baking mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir til its all spread out.
- Pour in the milk slowly while you stir, until it looks like dough.
- Roll the mix into balls about 1 inch wide, set em on a baking sheet with parchment.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or til they’re golden and cooked through.
- Let them cool a bit before serving cause theyre really hot inside.
Serving Suggestions
You can eat them plain or try these combos:
- Dips: Mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup adds a nice contrast.
- Drinks: Beer, soda, or sparkling water go great.
- Events: Perfect for game days, potlucks, or holiday buffets. Just spread em out on a platter.
Variations of Sausage Cheese Balls
Wanna mix it up? Try these:
- Spicy: Use hot sausage or more jalapeños for a fiery twist.
- Gluten-free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free mix.
- Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and cheese.
- Creative: Add BBQ sauce, different cheeses, or extra herbs.
Why Sausage Cheese Balls are Popular
- They fit any occasion—game days, holidays, or family dinners.
- Everybody from kids to grandparents loves em, so theyre crowd pleasers.
- They’re quick and easy to make, even when you dont have much time.
Storing and Reheating Sausage Cheese Balls
- Storage: Keep cooled balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven til heated through, or zap in the microwave but watch they dont get rubbery.
- Lasting flavor: When stored right, they still taste great days later.
FAQs
What are sausage cheese balls made of?
They’re mainly sausage, cheese, baking mix, and seasonings. You can add stuff like jalapeños or bacon too.
Can sausage cheese balls be made ahead of time?
Sure, just shape them and keep in the fridge til you bake, or freeze em for later.
How do I make sausage cheese balls healthier?
Try lean turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, or a gluten-free flour. Use herbs and cut back on salt.
Can I freeze sausage cheese balls?
Yep. Freeze cooked or uncooked in a single layer, then store in freezer bags.
What can I serve with sausage cheese balls?
They go good with veggies, fruit platters, dips, and drinks like beer or soda.
Conclusion
These sausage cheese balls are super tasty and really easy to make. You can tweak em any way you like, so why not give this recipe a try? Share them with friends and see how they like your own special twist!
sausage cheese balls
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper (optional)
- 1 grater for cheese
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage mild or spicy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup almond flour or all-purpose flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- as needed spray cooking spray or additional oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. You can use your hands for this step for better mixing.
- Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
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