Every time I make these Classic Sausage Balls, I’m transported back to cozy gatherings with family and friends. It’s one of those recipes that fills my heart with warmth and nostalgia. I can still remember the laughter and chatter filling the kitchen as we gathered around the table, devouring these little bites of happiness. With their delightful crispy exterior and savory filling, they’re the perfect snacks for any occasion—be it a holiday celebration, a casual game night, or just a Sunday afternoon. The smell alone brings back cherished memories, and I know that once you try them, you’ll feel the same warmth and comfort in your own home!
How to Make Classic Sausage Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: This is the star of the show! It adds that savory flavor that makes you want to come back for more. Choose your favorite brand; I always go for a local choice that supports our community.
- 2 cups biscuit mix: This helps bind everything together while giving the balls a delightful texture. Plus, it makes the recipe super easy to whip up!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Who doesn’t love cheese? This adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the sausage. Feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar or a blend!
- 1/4 cup milk: Milk adds moisture to the mixture without making it too wet. You can use whole milk for a creamier texture or skim if you’re watching calories.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a subtle background flavor that enhances the overall richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: It complements the garlic and boosts the savory taste even more.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick is always welcome, and this just adds the right amount of warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: This is essential, as it brings out all the flavors beautifully.
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious bites!
Cooking Steps:
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Preheat Your Oven: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, you want to start with a hot oven to get that golden crispiness on the outside!
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Gather the Ingredients: It’s always helpful to have everything ready before you start. Grab your sausage, biscuit mix, cheese, and the spices.
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Mix the Sausage: In a large bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and biscuit mix. Use your hands to mix them together—don’t be shy! It feels great to get your hands in there.
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Add Cheese: Next, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the fun begins, as the cheese gets mixed with the savory sausage!
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Moisten the Mixture: Pour in the milk, and sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until it’s well blended. You want every bite to have that fantastic flavor!
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Form the Balls: Now comes the shaping! With your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. You’ll want them to be uniform in size so they cook evenly.
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Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Place your sausage balls on the sheet, giving each a little space so they can expand as they bake.
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Time to Bake!: Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they are golden brown and the smell has taken over your kitchen—believe me, it’s heavenly!
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Cool and Serve: Once they’re out, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They retain heat well, so don’t worry if they aren’t piping hot out of the oven.
Why I Love Making This Dish
Sausage balls have a special place in my heart because they remind me of family get-togethers and laughter filling the air. They’ve become a staple at our holiday festivities, always disappearing faster than I can keep up with. There’s just something magical about gathering around a platter of these warm, cheesy delights, sharing stories, and enjoying each other’s company. It’s a dish that brings people together, and it makes my heart so happy to see everyone enjoying them!
What You’ll Need
For this recipe, you don’t need fancy tools or specialized equipment. Just a large mixing bowl and a baking sheet are all you need! A set of measuring cups and spoons will help you get the proportions just right. If you like, you can use a cookie scoop to help shape the balls quickly and evenly.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Combine the sausage and biscuit mix in a large bowl.
- Fold in the cheddar cheese.
- Add the milk and spices, mixing until combined.
- Shape the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped herbs like rosemary or parsley. They can take these sausage balls to a whole new level!
- Make sure your hands are slightly damp when rolling the balls. This helps prevent sticking and makes the process easier.
- If you’d like to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
These Classic Sausage Balls are incredibly versatile! They can be served as appetizers at a party or even as a tasty breakfast option. Pair them with a spicy mustard or a sweet dipping sauce like honey for a delightful contrast. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast!
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. They still taste fantastic days later!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, feel free to experiment with Italian sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each type will give a slightly different flavor, and it’s fun to mix things up!
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sausage ball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape them into balls and bake them when you’re ready!
What if I can’t find biscuit mix? If you can’t find it, don’t worry! You can easily make your own by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a bit of salt.
How do I keep them warm if serving at a party? To keep them warm, place the sausage balls in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. You can add a bit of chicken broth to keep them moist as they sit.
Conclusion
These Classic Sausage Balls have truly become a beloved recipe in my home. With their mouthwatering flavor and delightful texture, they are a crowd-pleaser every time. I can’t wait for you to try them as well! I know you and your family will love them just as much as mine does. And if you find yourself making more than you should (believe me, it happens!), they’ll make for perfect leftovers to enjoy throughout the week! So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some memories in the kitchen together.