Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a delightful, savory snack that perfectly combines the rich taste of sharp cheddar cheese with the hearty flavor of seasoned sausage. The result is a bite-sized, golden treat with a satisfying flaky texture and an irresistible burst of flavor. Whether you’re preparing for a game day, hosting a party, or just craving a delicious snack, these sausage balls are the ultimate solution. The infusion of Cheddar Bay seasoning adds a signature twist, making this dish stand out from traditional sausage balls. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these savory bites at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are easy to prepare and perfect for beginner cooks or seasoned kitchen enthusiasts alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day, holiday gathering, or just a weekend snack, these sausage balls are versatile enough for any event.
- Packed with Flavor: A delicious blend of sharp cheddar cheese, sausage, and Cheddar Bay seasoning creates a dynamic flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
- Quick to Make: From prep to serving, these sausage balls come together quickly, making them ideal for busy cooks looking for a fast yet impressive treat.
- Freezer-Friendly: These sausage balls can be made ahead of time and frozen, so they’re a great option for meal prep or future entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (or substitute with biscuit mix, garlic powder, and parsley)
- Whole milk
- Butter (for brushing)
- Optional: Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Sausage Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and Cheddar Bay biscuit mix. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients until fully incorporated. If you’re not using Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, you can substitute it with a regular biscuit mix and add garlic powder and parsley for that signature flavor.
3. Add Milk
Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, to the mixture. Stir after each addition, ensuring that the dough comes together without being too wet. The dough should hold its shape but not be overly sticky.
4. Shape the Balls
Once the dough is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 1 inch apart. This allows them to bake evenly and gives them room to expand.
5. Bake the Sausage Balls
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the goal is to have them turn golden brown and cook through without overbaking.
6. Butter the Balls (Optional)
While the sausage balls are baking, melt butter and mix it with Old Bay seasoning (if you’re using it). Once the sausage balls are done baking, brush them with the butter mixture to add an extra layer of flavor and shine.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving them warm. These are perfect for snacking as-is or paired with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, marinara, or honey mustard.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 sausage balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, swap the mild sausage for a hot sausage variety or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Try adding fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or rosemary to the sausage mixture for a fragrant, earthy twist.
- Cheese Swap: If you want a different flavor profile, experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve these sausage balls with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli.
- Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, use a gluten-free biscuit mix in place of the standard mix.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked sausage balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover sausage balls, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts until heated through.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 lb pound ground sausage mild or spicy
- 2 cups cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 1/4 cups cups Cheddar Bay biscuit mix or use regular biscuit mix with garlic powder and parsley
- 2 tablespoons tablespoons whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and Cheddar Bay biscuit mix. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together but is not too wet.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow the sausage balls to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage mixture, roll it into balls, and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake them. Simply bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
2. Do I have to use Cheddar Bay biscuit mix?
While Cheddar Bay biscuit mix gives these sausage balls their signature flavor, you can use a regular biscuit mix and incorporate garlic powder, parsley, and a pinch of salt to mimic the Cheddar Bay taste.
3. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
It’s recommended to use raw sausage for this recipe, as it helps bind the mixture together while baking. Pre-cooked sausage may not provide the same texture.
4. What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique twist.
5. Can I make these without milk?
Yes, milk can be substituted with water, broth, or even heavy cream for a richer texture. However, milk helps keep the sausage balls moist and tender.
6. Can I use turkey sausage instead of regular sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner option and works well as a substitute in this recipe.
7. How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?
The sausage balls should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you’re cooking for a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet or bake in batches.
9. What dipping sauces pair well with these sausage balls?
Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli are excellent choices for dipping.
10. Can I make these spicy?
Yes, for a spicier kick, use hot sausage or incorporate cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce into the mixture.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the savory goodness of sausage, the richness of cheddar cheese, and the signature Cheddar Bay seasoning in one easy-to-make bite-sized snack. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a simple snack, these sausage balls are sure to disappear quickly. With variations to suit different tastes and easy prep ahead of time, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Try them today, and watch as everyone reaches for another!
Let me know if you’d like further modifications or have additional questions!
