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:
- 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.
- 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!)
- Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
- 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.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature!

### 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:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix together sausage, cheese, baking mix, and cream cheese in a large bowl until well combined.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- 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!