Savory, spicy, and utterly delicious, these sausage balls are the perfect party snack or breakfast treat. Skip the Bisquick and dive into a homemade version that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Let’s get rolling!
Why This Recipe Works
- Homemade dough ensures a fresher, more customizable base than Bisquick.
- Perfect balance of spicy sausage and sharp cheddar for a flavor-packed bite.
- Easy to make ahead and freeze, so you’re always ready for guests.
- Bakes to golden perfection with a satisfying crunch outside and tender inside.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your sausage balls won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Cutting in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs is key for that perfect texture.
Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, then add the milk and sausage. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough sausage balls.
Form the Balls
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Spacing them about an inch apart allows for even cooking.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra kick, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. If you’re short on time, you can use a food processor to cut in the butter. Always use cold butter for the best texture. For a lighter version, turkey sausage and low-fat cheese work well, but adjust seasoning as needed. Freezing the balls before baking can help them hold their shape better.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the spicy sausage for mild or sweet Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for an extra spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage balls up to the baking step, then freeze them on the baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why no Bisquick?
Making the dough from scratch allows for more control over the ingredients and flavors. Plus, it’s just as easy and tastes even better!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.
Summary
These homemade sausage balls are a delicious, easy-to-make alternative to the Bisquick version, perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and customizable flavors, they’re sure to be a hit.