Sausage Balls(Appetizer)
Cheesy sausage balls are savory, bite-sized appetizers with a crispy exterior and cheesy interior, perfect for parties, game days, or quick snacks for meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the sausage reach room temperature.
- Mix all ingredients with hands until thoroughly combined.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet and freeze.
- Once frozen, transfer the sausage balls to plastic bags for storage.
- Keep in the freezer indefinitely.
- When ready to serve, remove from freezer and place on a cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, make sure your sausage is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the hot pork sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option, or add some diced jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer a different cheese, pepper jack or mozzarella can also work well, providing a unique twist on this classic appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sausage balls hot out of the oven as a delicious appetizer at parties or game days. They pair wonderfully with a side of honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or even with Monte Carlo Sandwiches for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the uncooked sausage balls in a single layer on a cookie sheet until frozen, then transfer them to airtight plastic bags. They can be stored in the freezer indefinitely. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and golden.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Balls(Appetizer) contains roughly 1376 calories, with 78g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (156% of the Daily Value), calcium (137% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2556mg per serving (111% 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 make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage balls and freeze them ahead of time. Just roll them into balls, freeze, and store in bags. They can be baked directly from frozen, making them a convenient appetizer for unexpected guests.
What type of cheese works best in sausage balls?
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for sausage balls, providing great flavor and texture. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance the overall flavor profile.
Can I bake sausage balls in an air fryer?
Absolutely! To bake sausage balls in an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the balls in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through, checking for doneness as air fryer models may vary.
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).