Marinated Sausage Balls
Marinated sausage balls feature spicy sausage coated in a tangy, sweet, and savory marinade, perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors and a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make 1-inch sausage balls, brown them, and drain.
- Mix red wine vinegar, catsup, light brown sugar, and soy sauce to prepare the marinade.
- Place the sausage balls in the marinade and refrigerate until needed.
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
- Cook in a small amount of oil until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for some heat. If you're out of red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar makes a great substitute. For a healthier option, you can use turkey sausage instead of hot sausage. Ensure the sausage balls are evenly browned for the best texture before marinating.
Serving Suggestions
These marinated sausage balls are perfect for game day or as an appetizer at gatherings. Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking, and consider pairing them with Western Style Baked Beans for a hearty meal. They also go well with a side of crunchy veggies and dip, or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover marinated sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or briefly microwave them, covered, to prevent drying out. They can also be served cold, making them ideal for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Sausage Balls contains roughly 141 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1244mg per serving (54% 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?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of sausage, such as Italian or breakfast sausage. Just keep in mind that the spices and seasoning will change the overall flavor profile, so adjust the marinade as needed to complement the sausage you choose.
How long should I marinate the sausage balls?
For the best flavor, marinate the sausage balls for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the marinade to penetrate the sausage, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to stir them occasionally to ensure even coverage.
Can I freeze the marinated sausage balls?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated sausage balls! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).