If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack, sausage balls are a great choice. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you're craving something savory. In this article, we'll share our favorite sausage balls recipe along with tips for making them perfectly every time.
Ingredients Needed to Make Sausage Balls Recipe
Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients you'll need:
- 1 lb. ground pork sausage
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Make sure your sausage is at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients.
For the Marinade Sausage Balls Recipe
There's no need for a marinade when making sausage balls, but you can add some extra flavor by mixing in a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. You can also experiment with different types of sausage to find the flavor you like best.
Kitchen Tools Needed Sausage Balls Recipe
To make sausage balls, you'll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
A hand mixer or stand mixer can also be helpful, but you can mix the dough by hand if you don't have one.
How to Make Sausage Balls Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools, it's time to make sausage balls. Here's how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, Bisquick baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Sausage Balls Recipe
Sausage balls can be cooked in a variety of ways, including baking, frying, or even grilling. Baking is the easiest and most common method, but if you want to try something different, here are a few tips:
- To fry sausage balls, heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully add the sausage balls and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- To grill sausage balls, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the sausage balls onto skewers or place them in a grill basket. Grill for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through and slightly charred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about sausage balls:
1. What kind of sausage should I use for sausage balls?
You can use any type of ground pork sausage, such as breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or spicy sausage. Just make sure it's not pre-cooked.
2. Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make sausage balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before baking.
3. Can I freeze sausage balls?
Yes, you can freeze sausage balls before or after baking. To freeze before baking, place the shaped dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To freeze after baking, let the sausage balls cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make sausage balls without Bisquick?
Yes, you can make sausage balls without Bisquick by using all-purpose flour instead. Just use the same amount of flour as Bisquick called for in the recipe and add 1 tsp. of baking powder.
5. What can I serve with sausage balls?
Sausage balls are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. They also pair well with a side salad or vegetable platter.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of shredded cheese you like, such as mozzarella, Colby jack, or pepper jack. Just make sure it's a good melting cheese.
7. Can I make sausage balls in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make sausage balls in a slow cooker by mixing all the ingredients together and shaping them into balls. Then, place the balls in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until cooked through.
8. How many sausage balls does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 48 sausage balls.
9. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, you can use ground turkey sausage instead of pork sausage if you prefer.
10. How long do sausage balls last?
Sausage balls will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Sausage balls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that's perfect for any occasion. With this recipe and our tips, you'll be able to make sausage balls that are perfectly seasoned, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. So next time you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, give this sausage balls recipe a try!