Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe – A Savory, Flavor-Packed Snack 🧀
If you’re looking for a savory, crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for any occasion, these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are the answer. They combine the irresistible flavors of Cheddar Bay biscuits and hearty sausage, making them the ultimate snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy weekend, or need a quick breakfast idea, these cheesy, flavorful sausage balls will hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Flavor: The famous Cheddar Bay biscuits flavor shines through in every bite, making these sausage balls irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: Only a few ingredients and simple steps are required, great for beginners and busy people.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These Sausage Balls are a hit at parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a tasty snack for the family.
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of sausage and cheddar cheese provides a satisfying bite that everyone loves.
Ingredients 🍽️
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground sausage | 1 pound |
| Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix | 1 package |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
Step-by-Step Guide 🥄
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, milk, and egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. The texture should be slightly sticky but easy to handle.
- Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more biscuit mix to get the perfect consistency.
3. Shape the Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Try to make them as uniform as possible for even cooking.
4. Bake the Sausage Balls
Bake the sausage balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. These cheesy, savory bites are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even breakfast.
Don’t skip the storage trick — it’s at the end of the post
Storage and Reheating 🧊
- Storage: Store your leftover Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure they cool down to room temperature before storing.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked sausage balls by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing them individually before transferring them to a zip-top bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sausage balls on a baking sheet and heat them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, until they are heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Secret Ingredient: A Cheesy Twist 🤫
Here’s the secret ingredient that makes these sausage balls stand out: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix! It’s packed with flavor and adds that delicious cheesy, buttery taste that you expect from the famous Cheddar Bay biscuits at Red Lobster. Using this mix ensures that your sausage balls will have a soft, fluffy texture with just the right amount of cheesy goodness.
Extra Tips to Make It Perfect ✨
- For Extra Cheese Flavor: You can add some Parmesan cheese to the mix for an extra cheesy punch.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, consider using spicy sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- For Fluffier Sausage Balls: Add a little more milk to make the sausage balls extra fluffy and soft. You can also use heavy cream for a richer taste.
- Custom Dips: Serve your sausage balls with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce to make them even more irresistible.
Recipe Notes 📝
| Note | Details |
|---|---|
| Cheese variety | You can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, if preferred. |
| Sausage options | Mild, spicy, or even turkey sausage work perfectly in this recipe. |
| Make-ahead option | Prepare the sausage balls ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. |
| Storage | Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Overmixing: Don’t overmix the dough! Overworking the dough can make the sausage balls tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Preheating is key! Ensure your oven is fully heated to the right temperature before baking. This helps the sausage balls cook evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
- Incorrectly Measuring the Biscuit Mix: Measure the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix correctly! Too much or too little mix can affect the texture of your sausage balls.
Serving Suggestions 🍴
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious suggestions:
- Soup: Serve these sausage balls alongside a creamy soup, like tomato soup or potato leek soup.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh, crunchy salad like a Caesar salad or garden salad to balance the richness.
- Side Dish: These sausage balls go wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.
- Drink: Enjoy with an iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer for the ultimate pairing.
Time & Servings ⏰
| Time | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 10 minutes |
| Cook time | 20-25 minutes |
| Total time | 30-35 minutes |
| Servings | 12-15 sausage balls (depending on size) |
FAQs 🔍
1. Can I use turkey sausage for this recipe?
- Yes! You can use turkey sausage as a leaner option. The flavor will still be great, but the texture might be slightly different.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prep the sausage balls ahead of time, shape them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
3. Can I bake these from frozen?
- Yes, you can bake the sausage balls from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. How can I make these sausage balls spicier?
- To make them spicier, use spicy sausage or add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
5. What’s the best way to serve these sausage balls?
- These sausage balls are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with dips like ranch, honey mustard, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts ✨
These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a fantastic snack, appetizer, or breakfast option that’s sure to please anyone. With the perfect blend of Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix and sausage, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a party or a cozy weekend breakfast, they’re sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with some of the extra tips to customize this recipe to your taste. These sausage balls are simple to make, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser!
