Glazed Sausage Balls
Sweet and savory glazed sausage balls feature tender sausage mixed with cracker crumbs and sage, then coated in a tangy ketchup-based glaze, perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine pork sausage, egg, cracker crumbs, milk, and sage in a bowl and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- In a saucepan, mix water, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar to prepare the glaze.
- Bring the glaze mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Brush or pour the glaze over the sausage balls and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some shredded cheese or finely chopped onion into the sausage mixture. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. When shaping the balls, aim for uniform size for even cooking. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy or turkey, to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve glazed sausage balls as a delicious appetizer at parties or game days. They pair wonderfully with a side of tangy dipping sauce or a fresh salad. Consider offering them alongside other American recipes for variety, such as a hearty Wisconsin Fish Chowder or a classic slaw for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover glazed sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a quicker option, use the microwave, heating in short intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Sausage Balls contains roughly 763 calories, with 17g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2704mg per serving (118% 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 sausage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a spicy sausage for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
How can I make these sausage balls healthier?
To make the sausage balls healthier, try using lean ground turkey instead of pork sausage. You can also reduce the amount of glaze or substitute some ingredients with lower-sugar options, such as using a sugar substitute in place of brown sugar.
Can I freeze the sausage balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked sausage balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).