Sausage Balls Recipe

Ground sausage: The main protein component that adds a rich and savory flavor to the sausage balls.

Bisquick mix: A versatile baking mix that helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the sausage balls their structure.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a deliciously cheesy flavor and helps to keep the sausage balls moist.

Milk: Helps to bind the ingredients together and adds a bit of moisture to the mixture.

When mixing the ground sausage, bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk, use your hands to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This method helps to evenly distribute the cheese and sausage throughout the mixture, resulting in a more consistent texture and flavor in each sausage ball. Additionally, slightly wetting your hands before forming the 1-inch balls can prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers, making the process smoother and more efficient.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of sausage.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef provides a similar texture and can be seasoned to achieve a sausage-like taste.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder: Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder to replace the bisquick mix.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour already contains leavening agents, making it a convenient alternative to bisquick mix.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a mild flavor and melts well, similar to cheddar.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack offers a creamy texture and a mild flavor that works well in sausage balls.

• milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps to tenderize the mixture, enhancing the overall flavor.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that maintains the necessary moisture in the recipe.

• Allow the sausage balls to cool completely after baking. This ensures they maintain their texture and flavor when stored.
• Place the cooled sausage balls in an airtight container. This helps to keep them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the sausage balls within 3-4 days. This is the best way to maintain their taste and quality for short-term storage.
• For longer storage, arrange the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Freeze the sausage balls on the baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm. This step is crucial for maintaining their shape and texture.
• Once frozen, transfer the sausage balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the sausage balls directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures they are as delicious as when first baked.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.

• Microwave Method: Place the sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the sausage balls in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are warmed through.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a toaster oven tray. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-12 minutes or until they are thoroughly warmed.

• Oven: Used to bake the sausage balls to a golden brown perfection.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ground sausage, bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the sausage balls on for baking.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for precise measurement of smaller quantities, if needed.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

• Cooling rack: Allows the sausage balls to cool evenly after baking.

• Kitchen scale: Optional, but can be used to ensure the ground sausage is exactly 1 lb.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking sheet in and out of the oven.

• Small scoop or spoon: Helps in forming the mixture into uniform 1-inch balls.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out the bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk ahead of time to streamline the mixing process.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform 1-inch balls and speeds up the shaping process.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing the ingredients to save time.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheet for easy cleanup and quicker transfer.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra sausage balls for a quick snack later.