Sausage balls are a cherished Southern favorite, ideal for parties, holiday celebrations, and casual snacking. This recipe blends sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix to create a deliciously savory treat. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, a breakfast bite, or a game-day snack, these sausage balls are always a hit.
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its flexibility. You can prepare sausage balls ahead of time, freeze them for later, and even adapt them to suit different dietary preferences. From classic cheddar sausage balls to keto and gluten-free options, there’s a variation for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making sausage balls—from essential ingredients to expert tips for achieving the perfect texture. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe will help you create irresistibly delicious sausage balls every time.
Ingredients for Sausage Balls
To make classic sausage balls, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Below is a list of essentials along with some optional variations.
Essential Ingredients
- Ground Pork Sausage (1 lb) – Choose mild, spicy, or maple-flavored sausage based on your preference.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but mild or extra sharp also works.
- Baking Mix (2 cups, like Bisquick) – This gives the sausage balls their structure. You can also use homemade biscuit mix.
- Milk (¼ cup, optional) – Helps keep the mixture moist and prevents dryness.
- Seasonings (Optional but Recommended):
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
Ingredient Variations
- Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular biscuit mix.
- Keto & Low-Carb – Replace the baking mix with almond flour and add a small amount of baking powder.
- Spicy Sausage Balls – Use hot sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Extra Cheesy – Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Herbed Sausage Balls – Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sausage Balls
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making perfect sausage balls. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure they turn out flavorful, moist, and delicious every time.
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet.
Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ¼ cup milk (optional but helps keep them moist)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Use your hands (or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment) to mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Bake the Sausage Balls
- Bake for 18-22 minutes.
- The sausage should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Let Them Rest and Serve
- Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are easy to make, but a few expert tips can take them from good to great. Follow these tricks to ensure they turn out moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured every time.
1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
- Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make sausage balls dry and crumbly.
- For the best texture and flavor, shred block cheese yourself.
2. Choose the Right Sausage
- Mild sausage: A classic choice for a balanced flavor.
- Hot sausage: Adds a spicy kick.
- Maple sausage: Gives a hint of sweetness that pairs well with cheese.
3. Don’t Overmix the Dough
- Overmixing can make the sausage balls tough and dense.
- Mix just until all ingredients are combined and the dough holds together.
4. Add Moisture if Needed
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of milk (¼ cup) to help keep the sausage balls tender.
- This is especially helpful when using leaner sausage or pre-shredded cheese.
5. Use a Cookie Scoop for Even Sizes
- A 1-inch cookie scoop helps ensure all sausage balls are the same size.
- This guarantees even cooking and a more professional presentation.
6. Avoid Overbaking
- Overbaking will dry out the sausage balls.
- Check for doneness at 18 minutes and remove them as soon as they turn golden brown.
7. Line the Baking Sheet
- Using parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
8. Try Different Cheeses for Variety
- While cheddar is the classic choice, try mixing in:
- Pepper Jack for a spicy twist
- Parmesan for a nutty, salty flavor
- Colby Jack for a milder, creamier taste
Variations of Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize them to fit different diets, spice levels, and flavor preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
1. Keto Sausage Balls (Low-Carb & Gluten-Free)
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, traditional baking mix (like Bisquick) is too high in carbs. Here’s how to make a keto-friendly version:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup almond flour (instead of baking mix)
- 1 tsp baking powder (to help them rise)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ cup cream cheese (for extra moisture)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients together, roll into balls, and bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes.
🔹 Why it works: Almond flour keeps the texture light while reducing carbs, and cream cheese adds extra softness.
2. Gluten-Free Sausage Balls
If you have a gluten intolerance, use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. Popular options include:
- King Arthur Gluten-Free Baking Mix
- Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Biscuit Mix
🔹 Tip: Some gluten-free mixes absorb more liquid, so add 1-2 tbsp of milk if the dough is too dry.
3. Extra Cheesy Sausage Balls
Love cheese? Add more!
- Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Try stuffing a small cube of cheese inside each ball before baking for a melty center.
4. Spicy Sausage Balls
For heat lovers, make these adjustments:
- Use hot sausage instead of mild.
- Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tbsp hot sauce.
- Mix in Pepper Jack cheese for an extra kick.
5. Vegetarian Sausage Balls
Yes, you can make a meatless version!
- Use plant-based sausage crumbles (like Beyond Meat or MorningStar).
- Choose a vegan biscuit mix and dairy-free cheese.
🔹 Tip: Plant-based sausages can be drier, so adding 2 tbsp of olive oil helps keep them moist.
Best Dipping Sauces for Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are delicious on their own, but adding a dipping sauce takes them to the next level. Whether you like something creamy, tangy, or spicy, there’s a perfect dip for every taste. Here are some of the best options:
1. Classic Ranch Dressing
- A cool, creamy ranch dip balances out the savory sausage and cheese flavors.
- For extra flavor, mix in a little hot sauce or fresh herbs like dill and chives.
2. Honey Mustard Sauce
- The combination of sweet and tangy flavors pairs perfectly with sausage balls.
- Homemade Version: Mix ¼ cup honey, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, and 1 tbsp mayonnaise.
3. Spicy Sriracha Mayo
- If you love heat, this dip is for you!
- How to make it: Mix ½ cup mayo, 1 tbsp Sriracha, and ½ tsp garlic powder.
4. Marinara Sauce
- A warm, tomato-based dip adds a pizza-like flavor to sausage balls.
- Heat up your favorite store-bought marinara or make a quick homemade version.
5. Cheese Dip (Queso Sauce)
- For extra cheesiness, serve sausage balls with melted nacho cheese or queso dip.
- Easy Recipe: Melt 1 cup cheddar cheese with ½ cup heavy cream and ¼ tsp garlic powder.
6. Barbecue Sauce
- Sweet and smoky BBQ sauce is a classic pairing with sausage.
- Try hickory, honey, or spicy BBQ flavors for variety.
How to Store and Reheat Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are great for making ahead, storing, and reheating later. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or meal prepping for the week, here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious.
1. How to Store Sausage Balls
At Room Temperature (Short-Term)
- If serving within a few hours, sausage balls can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- After that, refrigerate them to prevent spoilage.
In the Refrigerator (Up to 4 Days)
- Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
In the Freezer (Up to 3 Months)
- Freezing Cooked Sausage Balls:
- Let them cool completely.
- Arrange in a single layer and freeze for 1 hour.
- Freezing Uncooked Sausage Balls:
- Roll the mixture into balls but do not bake.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Store in a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen when ready.
2. How to Reheat Sausage Balls
In the Oven (Best Method)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place sausage balls on a baking sheet.
- Heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Reheating in the Microwave (Quickest Method)
- Place sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat in 15-20 second intervals until warm.
- Cover it to prevent drying out.
Reheating in the Air Fryer
- Set air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat sausage balls for 4-6 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Serving Ideas and Pairings for Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a party appetizer, or a game-day snack, here are the best ways to serve and pair them.
1. Sausage Balls as a Breakfast Option
Sausage balls are a great addition to a hearty breakfast. Pair them with:
- Scrambled eggs for a protein-packed meal.
- Buttermilk biscuits and gravy for a classic Southern breakfast.
- Hash browns or roasted potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Fruit salad to add a fresh contrast to the savory flavors.
2. Party Platter with Dips
For a crowd-pleasing party snack, serve sausage balls on a platter with multiple dipping sauces like:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Marinara sauce
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Barbecue sauce
Arrange the dips in small bowls around the sausage balls for an eye-catching and easy-to-share appetizer.
3. Game-Day or Tailgating Snacks
Sausage balls are a fantastic finger food for sports gatherings. Pair them with:
- Buffalo wings for a spicy kick.
- Nachos topped with cheese and jalapeños.
- Mini sliders for a variety of flavors.
- Beer or cocktails like a Bloody Mary or a light lager.
4. Holiday or Potluck Appetizer
For holiday meals or potlucks, serve sausage balls alongside:
- Cheese and crackers for a full appetizer spread.
- Deviled eggs for a classic Southern touch.
- Stuffed mushrooms for a complementary flavor.
- Cranberry sauce to add a touch of sweetness.
5. Light Meal with a Salad
If you want a balanced meal, serve sausage balls with a fresh salad. Great options include:
- Caesar salad with crisp romaine and parmesan.
- Greek salad with feta cheese and olives.
- Spinach salad with walnuts and balsamic vinaigrette.
Sausage balls are incredibly versatile and can be served with:
- Tini mac and cheese for a delicious comfort food combo.
- A side of crispy baked chicken wings for the ultimate party spread.
- Pair them with smoked meatloaf for a hearty meal or serve with other game-day favorites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sausage Balls
Even though sausage balls are easy to make, a few common mistakes can lead to dry, crumbly, or undercooked results. Here’s how to avoid the most frequent issues:
1. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese
- Why it’s a mistake: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly, making sausage balls drier.
- How to fix it: Always shred fresh cheddar cheese from a block for better texture and flavor.
2. Overmixing the Dough
- Why it’s a mistake: Overmixing makes the dough too dense, resulting in tough sausage balls.
- How to fix it: Mix just until the ingredients come together—don’t overwork the dough.
3. Not Adding Moisture
- Why it’s a mistake: If the dough is too dry, the sausage balls will be crumbly and fall apart.
- How to fix it: Add ¼ cup milk or cream cheese to keep them soft and moist.
4. Making the Balls Too Large
- Why it’s a mistake: Large sausage balls take longer to cook and may be raw in the middle.
- How to fix it: Keep them 1 inch in diameter for even cooking.
5. Overbaking
- Why it’s a mistake: Baking too long dries out the sausage balls.
- How to fix it: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, and check for doneness at 18 minutes.
6. Using the Wrong Type of Sausage
- Why it’s a mistake: Lean sausage (like turkey or chicken) can be too dry.
- How to fix it: Use regular pork sausage or add olive oil or cream cheese if using leaner meat.
7. Not Lining the Baking Sheet
- Why it’s a mistake: Sausage balls can stick to the pan, making them difficult to remove.
- How to fix it: Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet.
8. Not Testing for Doneness
- Why it’s a mistake: Undercooked sausage balls can be unsafe to eat.
- How to fix it: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 160°F (71°C).
Nutritional Information for Sausage Balls
Sausage balls are a delicious comfort food, but it’s helpful to know their nutritional breakdown—especially if you’re watching your calorie intake or following a specific diet. Below is the estimated nutritional information per serving (about 3 sausage balls).
1. Classic Sausage Balls (Per 3-Piece Serving)
- Calories: ~250-300 kcal
- Protein: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~20g
- Sodium: ~450mg
🔹 Tip: The calorie count can vary depending on the type of sausage, cheese, and baking mix used.
2. Healthier Alternatives
If you love sausage balls but want to make them lighter, here are some easy swaps:
Low-Carb & Keto Sausage Balls
- Use almond flour instead of Bisquick (lowers carbs).
- Replace regular sausage with turkey or chicken sausage (reduces fat).
- Add cream cheese for moisture without adding carbs.
- Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Carbs: ~2g
- Protein: ~14g
- Fat: ~16g
Gluten-Free Sausage Balls
- Use a gluten-free biscuit mix instead of regular Bisquick.
- Everything else stays the same!
Lower-Fat Sausage Balls
- Use low-fat cheddar cheese to reduce fat and calories.
- Choose turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork.
- Add a little olive oil or milk to prevent dryness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sausage Balls
What are the ingredients for sausage balls?
To make classic sausage balls, you need:
- 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild, hot, or maple)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix (like Bisquick)
- ¼ cup milk (optional, for moisture)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional, for depth of taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
What goes well with sausage balls?
Sausage balls pair well with a variety of sides and dips, depending on the occasion:
Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch dressing (cool and creamy)
- Honey mustard (sweet and tangy)
- Marinara sauce (for an Italian touch)
- Spicy sriracha mayo (for heat lovers)
- Cheese dip (queso) (extra cheesy goodness)
Side Dishes:
- Scrambled eggs and biscuits (for breakfast)
- Fruit salad (to balance the savory flavor)
- Deviled eggs and cheese platter (for party appetizers)
- Hash browns or roasted potatoes (for a heartier meal)
Beverage Pairings:
- Bloody Mary (for brunch)
- Light lager or craft beer (for game-day snacks)
- Iced tea or lemonade (for a casual meal)
What can I use instead of Bisquick in sausage balls?
If you don’t have Bisquick, you can make a homemade substitute using simple pantry ingredients:
🔹 Homemade Bisquick Substitute:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter or shortening (cut into the flour for texture)
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and add baking powder.
For a keto-friendly option, replace Bisquick with 1 cup almond flour + 1 tsp baking powder.
Why are my sausage balls dry?
Dry sausage balls are usually caused by one or more of the following:
- Too much baking mix (Bisquick)
- The ratio of biscuit mix to sausage should be balanced.
- Fix: Reduce the Bisquick slightly or add a little milk.
- Using pre-shredded cheese
- Store-bought shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly.
- Fix: Shred your own cheese for better moisture and texture.
- Not adding enough moisture
- If your mixture is crumbly, it may need more liquid.
- Fix: Add ¼ cup milk, sour cream, or cream cheese to keep them soft.
- Overbaking
- Baking too long dries them out.
- Fix: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, and check at 18 minutes.
- Using lean sausage
- Sausage with lower fat content (like turkey or chicken) can make the mixture too dry.
- Fix: If using lean meat, add 1-2 tbsp olive oil or butter for moisture.
Conclusion
This sausage balls recipe is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make, store, and customize. Whether you prefer spicy, cheesy, keto-friendly, or gluten-free variations, this sausage balls recipe can be adapted to fit any preference. With the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll have perfectly moist, flavorful sausage balls every time.
Try this sausage balls recipe for your next party, breakfast, or game-day snack. Serve them with delicious dipping sauces, experiment with different cheeses, or make a batch ahead of time for easy meal prep. No matter how you enjoy them, this sausage balls recipe is sure to be a hit!
Easy Sausage Balls Recipe – Cheesy, Savory & Perfect for Any Occasion
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon (or stand mixer with paddle attachment)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Measuring cups
- Cookie scoop (optional, for even sizes)
Ingredients
- Classic Sausage Balls:
- 1 lb ground pork sausage mild, spicy, or maple
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese freshly shredded for better melting
- 2 cups baking mix like Bisquick
- ¼ cup milk optional, adds moisture
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Ingredient Variations:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace baking mix with 1 cup almond flour + 1 tsp baking powder.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix instead of Bisquick.
- Extra Cheesy: Add ½ cup mozzarella or Pepper Jack cheese for extra gooeyness.
- Spicy Version: Use hot sausage and add ½ tsp cayenne pepper.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
- Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups baking mix
- ¼ cup milk (if using)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Mix by hand or use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment until fully combined. The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
- Step 3: Form the Sausage Balls
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands.
- Place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake the Sausage Balls
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Step 5: Let Them Rest & Serve
- Remove from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
Notes
Freezing Instructions:
Uncooked: Freeze raw sausage balls on a tray, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Cooked: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
For Moist Sausage Balls: Use freshly shredded cheese and add milk to prevent dryness.
Dipping Sauce Ideas: Try spicy sriracha mayo, queso, or barbecue sauce.