Hot Sausage And Cheese Puffs
Hot sausage and cheese puffs offer a savory, cheesy snack with spicy Italian sausage, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, combining crispy, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove sausage from casings.
- Cook sausage in a large skillet.
- Break up meat with a fork until no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat.
- Spoon sausage into a large bowl and let cool completely.
- Add grated cheddar cheese, biscuit mix, and water to the sausage; stir with a fork until blended.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on large cookie sheets, 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes or until puffed and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute turkey sausage for the Italian sausage. Ensure the cheese is well grated for even melting, and use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a balanced taste. You can also freeze unbaked puffs for later use.
Serving Suggestions
These hot sausage and cheese puffs make for a fantastic appetizer or game day snack. Serve them alongside a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Barbecued Turkey Drumsticks for a hearty meal. Consider offering a fresh salad or veggie platter on the side to balance the richness of the puffs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Sausage And Cheese Puffs contains roughly 179 calories, with 13g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
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 make these puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and cheese mixture ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the formed balls and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the biscuit mix?
If you don't have biscuit mix, you can create a homemade version using 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This will work similarly in the recipe and yield great results.
How spicy are these puffs?
The spiciness will depend on the type of hot Italian sausage you use. If you're sensitive to heat, you can adjust the ratio of hot to sweet sausage or use a mild sausage instead. Taste the mixture before baking to ensure it meets your spice preference.
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).