Cheesy Sausage Balls: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Snack

Cheesy sausage balls are a delightful treat that never fails to impress at gatherings and family get-togethers. These savory bites combine the rich flavors of sausage and cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and comforting. Originating from Southern cuisine, cheesy sausage balls have become a staple at parties, holiday celebrations, and even breakfast tables across the United States. I love how they bring people together, as everyone eagerly reaches for just one more!

What makes cheesy sausage balls so beloved is their perfect balance of taste and texture. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy center, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavor. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, cheesy sausage balls are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of breakfast sausage (I prefer spicy for an extra kick)
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Mixture

Let’s get started on these delicious cheesy sausage balls! First, I like to gather all my ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and some parchment paper for easy cleanup.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking our sausage balls to golden perfection.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the pound of breakfast sausage. I usually use my hands for this part, but you can also use a wooden spoon if you prefer.
3. Next, add the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl. The cheese is what makes these balls so irresistibly cheesy!
4. Now, let’s add the dry ingredients. Sprinkle in the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. This will give your sausage balls a nice little kick!
5. Using your hands or a spatula, mix everything together until well combined. It should be a bit sticky but hold together nicely. If it feels too dry, you can add a splash of milk to help bind it.
6. Once everything is mixed, pour in the 1/4 cup of milk. This will help keep the sausage balls moist and tender. Mix again until the milk is fully incorporated.

Shaping the Balls

Now that we have our mixture ready, it’s time to shape our sausage balls!

1. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the sausage balls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Using your hands, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. I like to make them about the size of a golf ball, but you can adjust the size to your preference.
3. Place the rolled balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each ball. They will expand a little while baking, so give them some room to breathe!
4. Continue rolling and placing the sausage balls until all the mixture is used up. You should have around 24-30 balls, depending on the size you made them.

Baking the Sausage Balls

Now it’s time to bake these beauties!

1. Once your oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through.
2. About halfway through the baking time, I like to rotate the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. This helps all the sausage balls get that lovely golden color.
3. To check if they’re done, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure they’re golden brown and firm to the touch.

Serving the Sausage Balls

Once your sausage balls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter.

1. If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
2. These cheesy sausage balls are perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard, for an extra treat!
3. Leftovers can be stored

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cheesy Sausage Balls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next gathering or simply enjoy a delicious snack at home. The combination of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, which means you can whip them up in no time! For serving suggestions, I love to pair these delightful bites with a zesty dipping sauce, like a spicy mustard or a tangy ranch dressing, to elevate the experience even further. You can also experiment with variations by adding different types of cheese, herbs, or even a touch of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so versatile! I encourage you to give these Cheesy Sausage Balls a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a game-day snack, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, I promise they will be a hit. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out for you! Happy cooking!

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