Name: Classic Sausage Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground pork breakfast sausage; 2 cups biscuit/baking mix (like Bisquick); 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

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Everyone goes crazy for these Classic Sausage Balls! Perfect for breakfast, appetizers, game day, or holiday gatherings, they combine savory sausage with cheesy goodness. These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a hit at any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time.
Savory Flavor Explosion: The combination of pork sausage and sharp cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will adore.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm as a breakfast item or serve as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual game day gathering, these sausage balls fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these tasty Classic Sausage Balls, gather your tools and set up your kitchen for success. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Measuring cups
Grater (for cheese)

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and makes transferring the sausage balls easy.
Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls

1 lb ground pork breakfast sausage (at room temperature)
2 cups biscuit/baking mix (like Bisquick)
1 lb sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Classic Sausage Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sausage balls will cook evenly and get that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork breakfast sausage and biscuit mix until well combined. Then fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese for added flavor.

Step 3: Form Balls

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each ball about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake Them

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for a golden brown exterior and ensure that the sausage is cooked through before removing them from the oven.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the sausage balls cool for about 5 minutes before serving. They are delightful when enjoyed warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces!

Enjoy making these Classic Sausage Balls, perfect for any occasion or just as a tasty snack!

How to Serve Classic Sausage Balls

Classic sausage balls are not just delicious; they are versatile too! These savory bites can be served in many ways, making them a hit at any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your sausage ball experience.

For Breakfast

Pair with scrambled eggs – The fluffy texture of scrambled eggs complements the savory flavor of sausage balls perfectly.
Serve with fresh fruit – A side of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the sausage.

As Appetizers

Offer with dipping sauces – Try honey mustard or ranch dressing for a delightful contrast to the savory flavor.
Include on a charcuterie board – These bite-sized treats look great alongside cheeses, crackers, and olives for a festive presentation.

During Game Day

Set up a dipping station – Provide various sauces like BBQ, sriracha, and garlic aioli for guests to enjoy.
Pair with beer or cocktails – The hearty taste of sausage balls goes well with cold beers or cocktails during the big game.

At Holiday Gatherings

Serve warm from the oven – Freshly baked sausage balls are always a crowd-pleaser at holiday feasts.
Incorporate into brunch spreads – They make an excellent addition to any holiday brunch table alongside mimosas and pastries.

How to Perfect Classic Sausage Balls

Achieving the perfect classic sausage balls is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for a flawless outcome every time.

Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures that everything mixes evenly and helps create a uniform texture.
Don’t overmix – Combine the ingredients just until mixed to maintain tenderness in your sausage balls.
Keep them uniform – Rolling them into equal-sized balls ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
Check for doneness – Make sure the sausage is fully cooked by cutting one open; it should be golden brown with no pink visible inside.
Let cool before serving – Allowing them to rest for a few minutes enhances their flavor and makes them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Sausage Balls

Serving classic sausage balls can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that will enhance your meal:

Spicy Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices add crunch and flavor alongside your sausage balls.
Caesar Salad – A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing balances out the richness of the sausage.
Veggie Platter – Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a refreshing crunch that pairs well with dips.
Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad offers comfort and pairs nicely with the savory taste of sausage balls.
Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks brushed with garlic complement these savory bites perfectly while adding extra carbs to your meal.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the sausage flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Classic Sausage Balls is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your sausage balls turn out perfectly.

Using cold ingredients – Starting with cold sausage or cheese can result in uneven cooking. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Not measuring accurately – Over or under-measuring the biscuit mix can lead to a poor texture. Use precise measurements for the best results.
Skipping the parchment paper – Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking and burning. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
Overbaking – Leaving the sausage balls in the oven too long can make them dry. Keep an eye on them and remove them when golden brown.
Not spacing them apart – Placing sausage balls too close together can result in soggy bottoms. Space each ball about an inch apart on the baking sheet.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Classic Sausage Balls

Freeze unbaked sausage balls for up to 3 months.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Classic Sausage Balls

Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Heat individual sausage balls for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Classic Sausage Balls?

Classic Sausage Balls are savory snacks made from ground pork sausage, biscuit mix, and cheddar cheese. They’re perfect for any gathering!

Can I make Classic Sausage Balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead by freezing unbaked sausage balls and baking them fresh when needed.

Can I customize my Classic Sausage Balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices, herbs, or even different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

How do I serve Classic Sausage Balls?

Classic Sausage Balls are great as appetizers or snacks. Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or mustard for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

Classic Sausage Balls are a delicious and versatile recipe that everyone will love. Perfect for breakfast, game day, or holiday gatherings, they can be customized with your favorite flavors. Try making these savory bites today!