Seasoned Sausage Balls
Flavorful sausage balls wrapped in crispy bacon, infused with cheddar and herbs, perfect for appetizers or gatherings, offering savory bites with smoky and cheesy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sausage, stuffing mix, eggs, and cheese together.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Wrap each ball with bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake on a cookie sheet at 300°F (150°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until bacon is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the sausage mixture. You can substitute turkey sausage for a lighter version, or use a different cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can also work, but fresh bacon offers the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these seasoned sausage balls as a hearty appetizer at your next gathering, or pair them with a tangy barbecue sauce for dipping. They go well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try them alongside Baked Peppers for a colorful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls 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 a quick option, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seasoned Sausage Balls contains roughly 189 calories, with 8g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and calcium (13% 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 these sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to wrap them in bacon and bake. This saves time on the day of your event.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer not to use bacon, you could try wrapping the sausage balls in prosciutto for a different flavor, or simply omit the wrapping altogether. For a vegetarian option, use a meat substitute and skip the bacon.
How do I know when the sausage balls are fully cooked?
The sausage balls are done when the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you have a meat thermometer, it's a great tool to ensure they're fully cooked and safe to eat.
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).