Sausage Balls Recipe

Ground sausage: The main protein in this recipe, providing a savory and flavorful base.

Bisquick mix: A pre-mixed baking blend that helps bind the ingredients together and gives the balls their structure.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor and helps to hold the mixture together.

When mixing the ground sausage, bisquick mix, and shredded cheddar cheese, use your hands to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This method helps to incorporate the cheese thoroughly into the sausage mixture, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful sausage ball. Additionally, chilling the mixture for about 15 minutes before rolling it into balls can make the process easier and less sticky.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of sausage.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef provides a similar texture and can be flavored with spices to replicate sausage.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder: Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder to replace the bisquick mix.

• bisquick mix - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour already contains leavening agents, making it a convenient alternative.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a mild flavor and melts well, similar to cheddar.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack offers a creamy texture and a mild taste that works well in sausage balls.

• Allow the sausage balls to cool completely after baking. This ensures they maintain their structure and texture when stored.

• Place the cooled sausage balls in an airtight container. If stacking them, use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to reheat.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Arrange the sausage balls on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the sausage balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat refrigerated sausage balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• For frozen sausage balls, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated thoroughly and golden brown.

• Alternatively, you can microwave individual sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, though this may result in a softer texture.

• To maintain the best flavor and texture, consume frozen sausage balls within 2-3 months.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to restore some of the crispiness.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. If they are not heated through, continue in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check for doneness and add an additional 1-2 minutes if necessary.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the sausage balls in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are heated evenly.
  5. Remove the lid for the last 1-2 minutes to allow them to crisp up slightly.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the sausage balls on a toaster oven tray lined with foil.
  3. Heat for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. If needed, turn them over to ensure even heating and crispiness.

• Oven: Used to bake the sausage balls at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ground sausage, Bisquick mix, and shredded cheddar cheese.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the sausage balls on for baking.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the Bisquick mix and shredded cheddar cheese.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Hands: Used to roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when removing the hot baking sheet from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the sausage balls to cool slightly after baking.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine the Bisquick mix and shredded cheddar cheese ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform sausage balls and speeds up the rolling process.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing ingredients to save time.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to reduce cleanup time.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and freeze half of the uncooked sausage balls for a quick future meal.