Sausage Ball Recipe

This hearty 3-ingredient sausage cheese ball recipe has been a treasured holiday staple in my family for generations. The magic of these savory, cheesy bites lies in their simplicity and the way they bring everyone together around the table during special celebrations.

I first made these sausage balls for a Christmas gathering when I was just learning to cook. The look of delight on my grandfather's face when he bit into one cemented their place in our family's holiday tradition forever.

Ingredients

• Bulk pork sausage: Warm the meat to room temperature for easier mixing and choose quality sausage with visible herbs and spices for better flavor
• Bisquick baking mix: Creates the perfect tender yet structured texture without needing to measure multiple dry ingredients
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Keep this cold from the refrigerator until mixing and use pre-shredded for convenience and better binding

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Station:

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather all ingredients before starting and allow sausage to come to room temperature while keeping cheese cold. This temperature contrast is crucial for proper mixing and baking.

Create The Base Mixture:

Add room temperature sausage and Bisquick to a large bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands. Work the ingredients together until they begin to form a cohesive mixture but don't overmix at this stage. Your hands are the best tools for this job as they allow you to feel when the consistency is right.

Incorporate The Cheese:

Add half the cold shredded cheese to the mixture and knead it in completely. Then add the remaining cheese and continue kneading until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should hold together well when squeezed but still have visible cheese bits throughout.

Form And Arrange:

Shape mixture into walnut sized balls using about a tablespoon of mixture for each. Place them on your prepared baking sheet with about an inch of space between each to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the bottoms are nicely browned and the centers are fully cooked. The aroma will fill your kitchen as they near completion. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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My grandmother always insisted on using the spiciest breakfast sausage she could find for these balls. The contrast between the sharp cheese and spicy meat created what she called the perfect flavor balance. Whenever I make these now, that first bite takes me straight back to her kitchen.

Temperature Matters

The success of these sausage cheese balls depends significantly on ingredient temperature. Room temperature sausage allows for easier mixing with the dry Bisquick, creating a more uniform base. Meanwhile, cold cheese prevents premature melting during the mixing process. If you find your mixture too sticky or difficult to form, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before shaping. This brief chilling helps the fats solidify slightly, making the balls easier to roll while ensuring they hold their shape in the oven.

Flavor Variations

While the classic recipe remains unbeatable, there are several delicious ways to customize these sausage balls. Try Italian sausage with mozzarella and a pinch of Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist. Breakfast sausage with maple notes pairs wonderfully with smoked gouda. For heat lovers, use hot sausage and pepper jack cheese with a dash of cayenne. My personal favorite variation involves adding a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mixture for a more complex flavor profile that still honors the original recipe.

Make Ahead And Storage

These sausage cheese balls shine as a make ahead appetizer. Form the balls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to two days before baking, or freeze them on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake frozen balls at 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes. Already baked sausage balls can be refrigerated for up to four days and reheated in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Their ability to maintain quality through storage makes them perfect for busy hosts who want to prepare elements of their menu in advance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these savory bites warm from the oven for the ultimate experience. While they stand perfectly on their own, a small bowl of honey mustard or ranch dressing makes a wonderful dipping option. For holiday gatherings, arrange them on a platter surrounded by fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries for a festive presentation. These hearty appetizers pair beautifully with light cocktails or crisp wines that cut through their richness. When served as part of a larger spread, balance their savory punch with fresher options like a vegetable platter or fruit display.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What ingredients are needed for this dish?

You'll need 1 pound of bulk pork sausage, 2 cups of Bisquick baking mix, and 1 pound of shredded cheddar cheese.

→ How do you prevent the cheese from melting out?

Use cold, shredded cheese and ensure your sausage is at room temperature. You can refrigerate the formed balls before baking for extra tidiness.

→ Can I customize the flavors?

Absolutely! Try spicy sausage for added heat or swap cheddar for sharp cheddar or pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.

→ What is the best way to serve them?

These sausage bites are great warm, served fresh from the oven. Pair them with a dipping sauce like mustard or ranch for added flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the sausage balls completely, store them in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.