4-Ingredient Sausage Balls are a quick and tasty appetizer or snack that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these savory bites for game day, holiday gatherings, or even as a protein-packed breakfast option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Only four ingredients are needed for this flavorful dish.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, breakfasts, or a snack on the go.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves these savory bites, making them a hit at gatherings.
- Easy to Customize: Add seasonings or cheese variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground sausage
- All-purpose baking mix
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Milk
Directions
- 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, baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Mix until well incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe makes approximately 30 sausage balls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Sausage Balls: Use spicy ground sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free baking mix for the regular baking mix.
- Cheese Variations: Try using pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
- Herbs and Spices: Add a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Freezing: Sausage balls freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
FAQs
What kind of sausage works best for this recipe?
You can use any ground sausage, but pork sausage is the most popular choice. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?
They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
It’s best to use raw ground sausage for this recipe so that the balls hold together better during cooking.
Do I have to use milk?
Milk helps bind the ingredients, but you can substitute it with water or a non-dairy alternative if needed.
Can I make mini sausage balls?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to around 15-18 minutes for smaller portions.
What can I serve with sausage balls?
Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and non-stick results.
Can I use reduced-fat cheese?
Yes, but the texture and flavor might be slightly different compared to using full-fat cheese.
Are these sausage balls keto-friendly?
If you substitute the baking mix with almond flour, they can be made keto-friendly.
Conclusion
4-Ingredient Sausage Balls are a versatile and satisfying dish that fits a variety of occasions. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, these sausage balls are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven or reheating them for a quick snack, they’re guaranteed to please!
Print4-Ingredient Sausage Balls
These sausage balls are a classic appetizer combining savory sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and a light biscuit texture. They’re quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 sausage balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage (spicy or mild, based on preference)
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Combine Ingredients:Â In a large bowl, mix together the ground sausage, Bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk until well combined. Using your hands can help ensure even mixing.
- Form Balls:Â Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:Â Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:Â Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Sausage Options:Â Feel free to use your preferred type of sausage, whether it’s spicy, mild, or even a flavored variety.
- Cheese Variations:Â While cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.