What goes in sausage balls?

A traditional sausage balls recipe includes three core ingredients: ground sausage, biscuit baking mix, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Together, these create that signature blend of savory, cheesy flavor. For a twist, you can try sausage balls with cream cheese for added creaminess or substitute Italian sausage for a more herby profile. These simple ingredients turn into perfect bite-sized homemade sausage balls that make the ultimate party snack or breakfast favorite.

Should you cook sausage before making sausage balls?

No, you should always use raw sausage when making sausage balls . Pre-cooking the sausage will cause the mixture to lose moisture and become crumbly. When baked together, the raw sausage binds with the cheese and baking mix, ensuring a soft, cohesive texture.

What is the best binder for sausage balls?

The combination of biscuit baking mix and cheese naturally binds sausage balls , but for extra hold, you can add a tablespoon of milk or cream cheese. This ensures your sausage balls stay tender and form well during baking. Cream cheese also helps lock in moisture and gives them a creamy interior that melts beautifully in your mouth.

Why are my sausage balls so dry?

Dry sausage balls are usually caused by using pre-shredded cheese or lean sausage. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly, adding moisture. If the dough still feels dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or olive oil until the mixture feels soft but not sticky.

Sausage Balls Recipe | Best easy 3-Ingredient Appetizer That Everyone Loves

Description

These homemade Sausage Balls are cheesy, savory, and irresistibly delicious, perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or as an easy party appetizer. Made with just three ingredients, they’re quick to prepare and always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground seasoned chicken sausage, at room temperature
2 cups biscuit baking mix
12 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional: 2 ounces cream cheese, softened (for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
Milk or water, as needed for texture

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix sausage, biscuit mix, and shredded cheese. Blend with your hands until well combined. If the dough feels dry, add a splash of milk or olive oil.
Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and the sausage is cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Serve Warm: Remove from oven and serve immediately with your favorite dips such as ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.

Notes

Make ahead: Shape and refrigerate the sausage balls up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze raw sausage balls on a tray, transfer to a freezer bag, and bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to bake time. Use sharp cheddar for a classic flavor or mix in cream cheese for an extra creamy texture. Perfect for relish trays, brunch buffets, and holiday parties.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
Calories: 264
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 660mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 49mg

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