Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe for Savory Snacking

Crafting delectable cheddar bay sausage balls always brings a spark of culinary excitement to any gathering.

Cheesy delights packed with savory goodness promise to tantalize taste buds at first bite.

Hearty bites of pure comfort emerge from simple ingredients blended with care.

Rustic appetizers like these connect us to warm kitchen memories and shared laughter.

Southern-inspired snacks carry a magical ability to create instant smiles around the table.

Each morsel delivers a burst of flavor that beckons hungry guests for seconds.

You’ll want to savor every crispy, cheesy moment of this irresistible recipe.

Dive right in and let the deliciousness begin!

What Matches Well With Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

  • Whip up a homemade ranch dressing with fresh herbs and tangy buttermilk to complement the sausage balls' rich and savory flavor profile.
  • Choose a light, cold lager that cuts through the cheesy richness and provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty sausage balls.
  • Create a bold cocktail featuring tomato juice, vodka, and a dash of hot sauce to enhance the sausage balls' robust and peppery notes.
  • Toss a light mixed greens salad with a citrusy vinaigrette to balance the heavy, cheesy texture of the sausage balls.

Fresh Takes on Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

  • Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Replace Bisquick with gluten-free baking mix or almond flour for celiac-friendly option.
  • Vegetarian Cheese Balls: Swap pork sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles and add extra herbs for depth of flavor.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Version: Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or add red pepper flakes to give the sausage balls a kickin' heat.
  • Low-Carb Keto Alternative: Use ground pork rinds instead of Bisquick and increase cheese content for a protein-packed appetizer.

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Questions Covered

  • Are Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze these sausage balls before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

  • Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a spicy varieties like spicy Italian sausage to change up the flavor profile.

  • Is there a way to make these gluten-free?

You can replace Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix or a combination of gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt to achieve a similar texture.

  • How do I prevent the sausage balls from becoming dry?

Use full-fat sausage and cheese, and don’t overmix the ingredients. The milk helps keep them moist, and avoid overbaking by checking them at the 18-minute mark.

Why You’ll Crave These Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Again

  • Super-fast recipe that takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Irresistible appetizer perfect for game days, parties, and family gatherings with easy-to-love flavors.
  • Enjoy as a breakfast item, game day treat, or unexpected protein-packed snack that works for multiple occasions.
  • Requires simple ingredients, basic mixing technique, and minimal kitchen skills- even beginner cooks can nail this recipe without stress.

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Ingredient Essentials

Meat Protein:
  • Sausage: Provides the hearty, savory base with rich flavor and protein content. Choose spicy or mild breakfast sausage for desired heat level.
Cheese Component:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds creamy, sharp flavor and helps bind ingredients. Sharp cheddar offers more intense cheese taste.
Dry Mix Ingredients:
  • Bisquick, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Parsley: Create texture and enhance overall seasoning profile. Dried parsley works best for consistent distribution.
Liquid Binders:
  • Milk: Helps combine ingredients and create smooth dough consistency. Whole milk provides richer texture.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Butter, Old Bay Seasoning: Provide golden, flavorful coating after baking. Optional seasoning adds extra zest to the sausage balls.

Preparing Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls in Minutes

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Crank up the oven to 375°F. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, toss together:
  • Ground sausage
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Bisquick mix
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Dried parsley

Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to blend everything thoroughly.

Step 3: Bind the Mixture

Pour in milk and continue mixing until the ingredients form a cohesive dough that sticks together easily.

Step 4: Shape the Bites

Roll the mixture into small balls, each about the size of a golf ball. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each bite.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color and ensure the sausage is fully cooked.

Step 6: Create Flavor Boost

While the bites are baking, whisk melted butter with Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.

Step 7: Final Touch

Once out of the oven, gently brush the hot bites with the seasoned butter to enhance their taste.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Plate these delectable bites while they’re warm. Offer dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for an extra treat.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

  • Customize Your Sausage: Swap regular sausage with spicy Italian, turkey, or vegetarian alternatives to match your taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Perfect Mixing Technique: Use slightly wet hands when rolling balls to prevent sticking and create uniform, smooth-surfaced sausage balls that hold together beautifully.
  • Cheese Matters: Opt for freshly grated sharp cheddar instead of pre-shredded cheese for better melting and more robust flavor in your finished appetizer.
  • Prevent Dryness: Don't overmix the ingredients and avoid overbaking to maintain a moist, tender texture inside the sausage balls.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare and shape sausage balls in advance, then refrigerate or freeze before baking for convenient entertaining and meal prep.

Storage Hacks for Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

  • Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap sausage balls individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for long-term storage.
  • Restore crispiness by spreading sausage balls on a baking sheet and warming at 350F for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
  • For quick reheating, place sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate and warm in 15-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking.
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Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe


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4.8 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Cheesy Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls bring Southern comfort to your party snack lineup with irresistible flavor. Packed with bold cheddar, zesty sausage, and herbal notes, you’ll crave these addictive bites that vanish quickly from any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 ¼ cups (150 g) Bisquick or another baking mix
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or another seafood seasoning (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 375F (190C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.
  2. Combine sausage, cheddar cheese, Bisquick, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley in a large mixing bowl, using hands or a robust utensil to thoroughly incorporate all ingredients.
  3. Gradually introduce milk to the mixture, blending until the components form a cohesive dough that maintains its structural integrity.
  4. Craft uniform spherical portions, approximately 1-inch in diameter, arranging them methodically on the prepared baking surface with minimal spacing between each morsel.
  5. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven, allowing the sausage balls to transform into golden-hued delicacies over 18-20 minutes, ensuring complete internal cooking.
  6. Simultaneously, craft a complementary butter glaze by melding melted butter with Old Bay seasoning, creating a flavor-enhancing coating.
  7. Upon removal from the oven, delicately brush the piping-hot sausage balls with the seasoned butter, imparting an additional layer of culinary complexity.
  8. Present these savory spheres while warm, ideal as a versatile culinary offering accompanied by preferred dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara.

Notes

  • Swap out pork sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to create a lighter, leaner version that’s perfect for health-conscious eaters.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or smoked gouda to add unique flavor profiles and keep the recipe exciting.
  • Create a gluten-free option by substituting Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix or almond flour for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Make ahead and freeze uncooked sausage balls for up to a month, allowing you to have a quick appetizer ready anytime unexpected guests arrive.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

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