Sausage Balls In Cranberry Sauce
Sausage balls baked to perfection and served with tangy cranberry sauce, offering a savory-sweet flavor combination perfect for festive gatherings or hearty appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the seasoned pork sausage, beaten eggs, fresh bread crumbs, salt, and poultry seasoning in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes.
- Serve with jellied cranberry sauce mixed with prepared mustard.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork. If you don't have fresh bread crumbs, you can substitute with store-bought breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. Adding grated cheese to the sausage mixture can enhance flavor and moisture. Make sure to bake until golden for a perfect texture. These sausage balls are a great appetizer option for gatherings or parties.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage balls are fantastic served as an appetizer or snack at parties. Pair them with a refreshing salad or serve alongside sweet potato fries for a heartier meal. They also complement holiday spreads beautifully. For an extra touch, consider pairing them with a side of cranberry sauce to enhance the flavors. Explore more American recipes for festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover 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 warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Balls In Cranberry Sauce contains roughly 1187 calories, with 37g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (96% of the Daily Value), protein (73% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 freeze sausage balls for later?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked sausage balls. If freezing uncooked, shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for fresh bread crumbs?
If you don't have fresh bread crumbs, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed crackers. Just remember that the texture might vary slightly, so adjust the moisture in your mixture if needed.
How can I make these sausage balls spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even hot sauce into the sausage mixture. Adjust the amount to your taste preference for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
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).