Sausage Balls Recipe

Ground sausage: Provides the savory, meaty base for the sausage balls.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor and helps bind the mixture together.

Bisquick mix: A versatile baking mix that helps to give the sausage balls their structure and a slight fluffiness.

When mixing the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and bisquick mix, use your hands to ensure even distribution of ingredients. This method helps to incorporate the cheese and bisquick thoroughly into the sausage, resulting in a more uniform texture and flavor in each sausage ball.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of sausage.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is another lean alternative that can be flavored with spices to replicate sausage.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: Mozzarella has a milder flavor but still provides the necessary creaminess and melt.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack offers a similar texture and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour can be used in place of Bisquick mix, though you may need to add a bit of fat like butter or shortening.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with pancake mix: Pancake mix can serve as a substitute, providing a similar texture and rise, though it may add a slight sweetness.

• To keep your sausage balls fresh and delicious, let them cool completely after baking. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.

• Once cooled, place the sausage balls in an airtight container. You can use a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to maintain freshness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3-4 days. This keeps the sausage balls at a safe temperature and preserves their flavor.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the sausage balls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the sausage balls to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy your sausage balls, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• Alternatively, you can thaw the sausage balls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This method ensures even heating and maintains their texture.

• For a quick snack, you can also reheat the sausage balls in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Be cautious, as microwaving can sometimes make them a bit chewy.

• To add a burst of flavor, consider serving your reheated sausage balls with a dipping sauce. Options like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can elevate the taste experience.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the sausage balls in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are warmed through.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the sausage balls on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until they are thoroughly warmed.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the sausage balls until golden brown.

• Large mixing bowl: Combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick mix.

• Baking sheet: Place the rolled sausage balls on this for baking.

• Measuring cups: Measure out 1.5 cups of Bisquick mix and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.

• Mixing spoon: Mix the ingredients until well combined.

• Hands: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.

• Oven mitts: Use these to safely remove the baking sheet from the oven.

Pre-mix ingredients: Combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and bisquick mix the night before and store in the fridge.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform sausage balls and speeds up the rolling process.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to reduce cleanup time.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing to save time.

Batch bake: If you have multiple baking sheets, prepare them all at once and bake in batches.