Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Name: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups biscuit mix; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

These cheddar bay sausage balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending the deliciousness of cheddar cheese with the savory goodness of sausage. Perfect for parties, game days, or as a snack, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and even easier to devour. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet flavorful recipe that captures the essence of comfort food.

Ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups biscuit mix
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 24 sausage balls. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 sausage ball), you can expect approximately 120 calories, 8g fat, 7g protein, 1g carbs, and 1g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
Add the biscuit mix, milk, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option. Additionally, use gluten-free biscuit mix for a gluten-free version. Cheddar can be replaced with any cheese of your choice, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to add a different flavor.

Serving and Pairings

These cheddar bay sausage balls pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy mustard. They make an excellent appetizer for parties, game days, or family gatherings, ensuring that everyone will be coming back for seconds.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. These sausage balls can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overmix the ingredients, as this can make the sausage balls tough.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.
Don’t skip the butter brush for a crispy texture.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; don’t be afraid to experiment.
Let the balls cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add shredded herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture.
Try different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
Serve with a variety of dips to please all palates.
For a spicier kick, mix in jalapeños.
Use a baking mat for easier cleanup.

FAQs

Can I make cheddar bay sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just roll into balls and bake when ready to serve.

What is the best way to freeze these sausage balls?

To freeze, arrange uncooked sausage balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for later baking.

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a different flavor.

How do I know when they are done baking?

The sausage balls should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done. An internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) ensures they are safely cooked.

What dipping sauces work best?

Some popular options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, and spicy ketchup, which complement the savory flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

Cheddar bay sausage balls are a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress your guests. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these savory bites are a must-try. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a snack, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make this recipe your own!