Barbecued Sausage Balls
Juicy sausage balls coated in a tangy ketchup-based sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or game day snacking, blending savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the sausage, egg, and cracker crumbs in a skillet and cook slowly until browned.
- Drain the cooked sausage mixture and place it in a serving dish.
- Mix the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce together to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the sausage mixture.
- Simmer the sausage balls in the sauce for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, use a mix of regular and spicy sausage. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs work well as substitutes. To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic to the sausage mixture. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar slightly. This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecued sausage balls as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside classic dips like ranch or blue cheese. They pair beautifully with a side of coleslaw or potato salad. You can also serve them over rice to make a hearty meal, or alongside red beans and rice (Bayou Country Style) for a flavorful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave them for 30-45 seconds until heated through. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Sausage Balls contains roughly 574 calories, with 9g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned to maintain the flavor profile of the dish.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To add heat to the sauce, consider incorporating hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the ketchup mixture. You can also experiment with adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mix for an extra kick.
Can I prepare these sausage balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then cook them just before serving. Alternatively, you can cook them fully and reheat as needed, making them a convenient option for entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).