Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe Perfect for Parties - The Kitchens Aid - The Kitchens Aid

Cheesy Sausage Balls Recipe Perfect for Parties

Imagine this: a warm, cozy gathering with friends and family, laughter filling the air, and a plate of golden, cheesy sausage balls at the center of the table. These gems are the epitome of comfort food with a touch of nostalgia. Inspired by potlucks and holiday brunches from my childhood, they’re ridiculously easy to make and always the first thing to disappear at any event. Bonus: they’re perfect as a snack, party appetizer, or even a breakfast bite!

If you’re looking for a bite-sized savory treat that’s cheesy, hearty, and downright irresistible, these sausage balls have your name written all over them!

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • **Crowd-Pleaser**: Perfect for parties, brunches, game days, or casual snacking.
  • **Simple Ingredients**: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find items.
  • **Make-Ahead Friendly**: Prep and freeze them for quick and easy baking later.
  • **Customizable**: Add your favorite flavors or spices to make them your own.

### Ingredients Breakdown

  • Ground Sausage: Use your favorite breakfast sausage—spicy, mild, or even maple-flavored for a twist.
  • Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to experiment with Colby Jack or a sharp white cheddar for added depth.
  • Baking Mix (like Bisquick): This binds everything together to form those beautifully tender balls.
  • Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient for keeping these sausage balls soft and creamy.
  • Seasonings: A little garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne works wonders!

Pro Tip: Let your sausage and cheese soften slightly at room temperature. This makes mixing everything together much easier!

### Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! You’ll have these sausage balls ready in no time—here’s how:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheese, baking mix, and cream cheese. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until it’s well combined. (Don’t be afraid to get messy!)
  3. Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake: Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden on the outside and cooked through.
  5. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature!
Cheesy Sausage Balls
Just look at that golden, melty perfection!

### Chef’s Tips and Tricks

  • Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing can make the sausage balls tough. Mix just until everything comes together.
  • Make-Ahead Option: These freeze beautifully! Roll the mixture into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes of cooking time.
  • Even Cooking: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all your sausage balls are the same size, so they cook evenly.

### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

  • Add Some Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  • Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix to make them suitable for guests with dietary restrictions.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce for dipping!
  • Breakfast Twist: Pair the sausage balls with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete brunch spread.

### FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep and roll the balls, then freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from the freezer when you’re ready to serve them.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp them back up!
Can I use vegan alternatives?
Yes! Replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free cheese, and opt for a vegan baking mix to make these vegan-friendly.

### Recipe Card

Cheesy Sausage Balls

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 24 sausage balls

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground sausage
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne for seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Mix together sausage, cheese, baking mix, and cream cheese in a large bowl until well combined.
  3. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your cheesy, savory sausage balls with your favorite dip or on their own!

This recipe is such a hit in my kitchen, and I know it will be in yours too! Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a cozy snack to share with loved ones, these cheesy sausage balls deliver every time. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—leave a comment below or tag me on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Let’s keep the cheesy goodness rolling!

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