Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory sausage, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice all rolled into one delicious bite. Perfect as an appetizer or a hearty snack, these little morsels are easy to make and even easier to devour. Whether served at a party or enjoyed during a cozy night in, sausage balls will surely become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground sausage
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup biscuit mix
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 sausage balls. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 sausage ball):
– Calories: 90
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Sodium: 150mg
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Add the biscuit mix, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the sausage for a lighter version. Additionally, consider using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to add varied flavors to your sausage balls.
Serving and Pairings
Sausage balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or mustard. They also complement a fresh vegetable platter or can be served alongside mini sliders for a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overmix the ingredients to keep the balls tender.
– Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
– Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
– Adjust cooking time based on your oven’s performance.
– Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
Helpful Tips
– Use a cookie scoop for uniform balls.
– Experiment with spices to suit your taste.
– For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits to the mixture.
– Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
FAQs
Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage ball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of sausage should I use?
You can use any type of ground sausage, such as pork, turkey, or chicken. For a spicier kick, opt for spicy Italian sausage.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still gives you deliciously cooked sausage balls.
How do I know when they are done?
Sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety.
Can I freeze sausage balls after cooking?
Yes, cooked sausage balls can be frozen. Just make sure they cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Sausage balls are a delightful and versatile dish that can satisfy any craving. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, these savory bites are sure to impress. Try making them for your next gathering, and watch them disappear!
Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup biscuit mix
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the biscuit mix, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
