recipe for sausage balls

Let’s Get Baking!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, gently combine the sausage, cheese, herbs, and spices.
3. Mix in the beaten egg and baking mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!
4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls

For perfectly textured sausage balls, follow these tips:

Moisture Control

• Use the right amount of liquid (the egg) to prevent dryness.
• Don’t overmix – this leads to dense balls.

Mixing

Mix gently by hand. Avoid using a mixer, as this can make the sausage balls tough.

Size and Shape

Use a cookie scoop or your hands to create uniform balls for even cooking.

Spicy Sausage Ball Variations

Spice things up! Here are a few ideas:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Use pepper jack cheese or add diced jalapeños.
• Experiment with spicy Italian sausage or chorizo.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Freezing

• Place unbaked sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Reheating

Bake frozen sausage balls at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Storage

Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Adapting the Recipe

Make these sausage balls work for you! Here are some ideas for dietary adjustments:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baking mix or almond flour.
• Low-Carb: Reduce or eliminate the baking mix, and use low-carb cheese options.
• Meat Alternatives: Substitute chicken or beef sausage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing: Mix until just combined.
• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on them to prevent dryness.
• Low-Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sausage and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your sausage balls with delicious pairings!

Dipping Sauces

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Spicy mustard

Side Dishes

• Fresh salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Baked beans

Conclusion

With a little practice, these sausage balls will become your new favorite appetizer! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and sharing them with friends and family. Happy baking!