Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cheddar cheese and savory sausage with the convenience of a biscuit mix, resulting in a quick and easy appetizer that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The garlic butter finish adds a rich, delicious touch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers, these sausage balls are both satisfying and simple to make.

Ingredients

▢ 1 box Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (11.36 ounces)
▢ 16 ounces breakfast sausage
▢ 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
▢ ¼ cup milk, as needed
▢ 2 tablespoons butter, melted

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F.

2. In a large bowl, combine the biscuit mix, breakfast sausage, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use your hands to mix until the dough holds together. Add milk a little at a time if needed to moisten the dough and help it come together.

3. Take a small amount of dough, squeeze it tightly to bring it together, then roll it into about a 2-inch ball. Repeat until you have 32 sausage balls.

4. Place the sausage balls about ½ inch apart on a baking sheet. They will expand slightly during baking but can be placed fairly close together.

5. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until fully cooked through.

6. Mix the melted butter with the seasoning packet included in the biscuit mix. Once the sausage balls are out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.

Servings and Timing

• Makes about 32 sausage balls

• Preparation time: 10-15 minutes

• Baking time: 18-22 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Swap breakfast sausage for spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat.

• Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.

• Add finely chopped green onions or jalapeños into the dough for extra zest.

• Make mini versions for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres perfect for parties.

• Substitute the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix with a plain biscuit mix and add your own garlic powder and parsley to customize.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350˚F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

• Sausage balls can also be frozen before baking. Freeze them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the sausage balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if I don’t have Cheddar Bay biscuit mix?

You can use any biscuit mix and add garlic powder and dried parsley to mimic the Cheddar Bay flavor.

How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?

They should be golden brown and cooked through after 18-22 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for safety.

Can I freeze cooked sausage balls?

Yes, you can freeze fully cooked sausage balls. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.

What can I serve with these sausage balls?

They are great as-is or paired with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.

Can I make these gluten-free?

If you use a gluten-free biscuit mix, this recipe can be adapted for a gluten-free diet.

How spicy are these sausage balls?

They have mild heat unless you choose a spicy sausage or add jalapeños.

Can I use shredded pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine and saves prep time.

Are these sausage balls kid-friendly?

Yes, they are typically a hit with kids due to their cheesy, savory flavor and bite-sized shape.

Conclusion

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a classic crowd-pleaser that combines convenience, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a savory snack, these sausage balls offer a perfect balance of cheesy, garlicky goodness with a satisfying bite. Easy to prepare and quick to bake, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.