3 Ingredient Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These 3-ingredient cheesy sausage stuffing balls are a flavorful, savory snack that can elevate any party or holiday spread. The combination of savory sausage, flavorful stuffing, and melty cheddar cheese makes them irresistible. They’re simple to prepare, quick to bake, and perfect for serving with mini skewers or toothpicks, making them ideal for easy eating at parties. Plus, you can prep them ahead of time, saving you precious minutes during the hustle and bustle of the event.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Jimmy Dean sausage

• 1 (6oz) box StoveTop stuffing (chicken or turkey)

• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup water

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the contents of the StoveTop stuffing and stir well. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. The goal is to have the stuffing slightly moistened but not too soggy.

2. In a large bowl, combine the uncooked sausage, the prepared stuffing, and the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Roll the mixture into small, tightly packed 1-inch balls. Make sure each ball is compact enough to hold together while baking.

4. Place the sausage balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate them for at least an hour or overnight.

5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the sausage balls are chilled, bake them in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.

6. Let the sausage balls cool for a few minutes before serving. They will hold up well on the counter for hours, and you can even serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 40 sausage balls

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Chilling Time: 1 hour or overnight

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cranberry Dipping Sauce: Serve these sausage balls with a sweet and tart cranberry dipping sauce for added flavor.

• Spicy Sausage: Use spicy sausage or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a little heat.

• Herbs and Spices: Customize your sausage balls with some dried herbs, like sage or thyme, or a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: After serving, any leftover sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the sausage balls back on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls, refrigerate them for at least an hour or overnight, and bake them just before serving.

2. Can I freeze these sausage balls?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked sausage balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

3. How do I know when the sausage balls are cooked through?

The sausage balls should be golden brown on the outside, and when cut open, the sausage should no longer be pink inside. You can also check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C).

4. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Jimmy Dean sausage is a popular choice, you can use any type of ground sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage or spicy sausage for an added kick.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free stuffing mix in place of the StoveTop stuffing. Just make sure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

6. How do I prevent the sausage balls from falling apart?

Ensure that you roll the mixture tightly when forming the balls, and refrigerate them before baking to help them hold their shape. Chilling helps them firm up.

7. Can I bake these in a different temperature?

While 350°F is ideal for golden, cooked-through sausage balls, you could bake them at 375°F for a slightly shorter time (about 20 minutes), but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

8. Can I make the stuffing mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you're ready to combine it with the sausage and cheese.

9. Can I add vegetables to these sausage balls?

Sure! You can mix in finely chopped vegetables, such as onions or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture.

10. How do I serve these at a party?

To make serving easier at a party, you can provide toothpicks or mini skewers for guests to easily grab and enjoy these tasty treats.

Conclusion

These 3-ingredient cheesy sausage stuffing balls are the ultimate easy appetizer, combining minimal prep with maximum flavor. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or any time you need a savory snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. Whether you make them ahead of time or bake them fresh, these sausage balls will impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.