Sweet N' Sour Sausage Balls

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Sweet N' Sour Sausage Balls offer a savory, tangy flavor combination with a hint of ginger, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with a delightful sweet and sour glaze.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb Jimmy Dean sausage
  • 1 cup catsup
  • 1 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp ginger

Instructions

  1. Make 1-inch sausage balls from the sausage mixture.
  2. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through and browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped green onions or shredded cheese to the sausage mixture. If you want a slightly spicier kick, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes. If you don't have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute. Be sure to keep an eye on the sausage balls as they bake, adjusting the time if necessary to ensure they are perfectly cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Sweet N' Sour Sausage Balls as a delicious appetizer at your next gathering, pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce. They also make a great main dish alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting meal, consider serving with a side of Briarpatch Bean Soup for a satisfying combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. They also reheat well in a microwave, though baking will keep them crispier.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sweet N' Sour Sausage Balls contains roughly 156 calories, with 1g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1353mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).

156 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.4g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 33.4g 12% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 30.1g 60% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1353.4mg 59% DV
Potassium 173.6mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 0.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1mcg
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 57.1mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Soy

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 balls ahead of time. Form the balls and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick and easy appetizer when you're ready to cook.

What can I use instead of Jimmy Dean sausage?

If you prefer, you can substitute Jimmy Dean sausage with any ground sausage you like, such as turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, plant-based sausage alternatives are available for a vegetarian version. Just ensure they are seasoned well for the best flavor.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

To adjust the sweetness of the sauce, you can decrease the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference. Alternatively, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider adding a bit more sugar or using a sweeter variety of catsup. Taste and adjust as needed before serving.

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).

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