Easy Bisquick Sausage Balls: Your Go-To Recipe for Cheesy, Savory Bites
Bisquick Sausage Balls are a timeless classic, a savory, crispy, and delightfully cheesy appetizer or snack that traditionally makes its grand appearance during football season and the festive holiday season. However, we firmly believe these irresistible bites are far too delicious to be confined to just a few months of the year. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, perfectly seasoned sausage ball any time you crave a quick, satisfying treat – that’s the year-round magic we’re talking about!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Bisquick Sausage Balls
Sausage balls have an undeniable charm and are almost always the first to disappear from any party spread. What makes this particular recipe stand out? We’re about to unveil some fantastic tips and tricks that will transform your sausage ball making experience, making it not only quicker but also significantly easier, ensuring consistently perfect results every single time.
These are more than just an appetizer; they are a super easy, crispy, and savory one-bite delight that truly everyone adores! Imagine serving a dish that requires minimal effort but garners maximum praise. That’s precisely what these Bisquick sausage balls offer.
They come together in mere minutes, making them an ideal choice for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re planning a hearty breakfast or brunch, need a satisfying snack to fuel your day, or are hosting a large gathering, these sausage balls fit every bill. Their versatility is unmatched, moving seamlessly from a casual morning bite to an elegant party hors d’oeuvre.
Looking to round out your appetizer menu with more crowd-pleasers? Pair these delicious sausage balls with some of our other fantastic recipes. You might love our creamy spinach dip, the classic rich artichoke dip, or the delightful easy spinach artichoke cups for a truly memorable spread.
Don’t Sweat The Recipe is supported by its readers. We may earn a commission if you purchase through a link on our site. Learn more.
Simple Ingredients for Ultimate Flavor
The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity, requiring just three core ingredients to achieve maximum flavor and satisfaction. You will only need: Original Bisquick baking mix (or your preferred biscuit mix), quality bulk ground pork sausage, and freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the signature taste and texture of these beloved sausage balls.
Let’s dive a little deeper into these essential ingredients:
- Original Bisquick Baking Mix: This is the secret to the incredibly light and tender yet crispy exterior of the sausage balls. Bisquick, or any similar all-purpose baking mix, provides the flour, leavening, and fat needed to bind the ingredients and give the balls their classic texture without needing a long list of separate ingredients.
- Bulk Ground Pork Sausage: The star of the show! We recommend using bulk ground sausage rather than sausage links, as it’s easier to mix evenly into the dough. You can choose regular mild sausage for a classic flavor, or opt for a hot and spicy variety if you prefer a little kick. The fat content in pork sausage is key to keeping the sausage balls moist and flavorful during baking.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Shredded: Nothing beats the tangy, savory punch of sharp cheddar. When melted, it binds the sausage and Bisquick together, creating that irresistible gooey center and adding a layer of rich, cheesy goodness. Freshly shredding your cheese is always recommended over pre-shredded options, as it melts more smoothly and incorporates better into the mixture.
How to Master Classic Sausage Balls with Bisquick
In the past, the thought of making sausage balls by hand was enough to deter me. The tedious task of hand-mixing the dense ingredients to achieve a cohesive mixture that could actually form a ball felt like an endless chore. It took so much time and effort that I rarely bothered to make them.
However, discovering the magic of a stand mixer completely revolutionized my approach! This incredible appliance whips the ingredients together in virtually no time flat, effortlessly creating a perfectly combined mixture. It’s truly amazing how much easier and quicker the process becomes. I can confidently say I will never make another batch of sausage balls without my stand mixer – it’s an absolute game-changer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking as soon as your sausage balls are ready to go in.
- Line Your Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step is crucial for preventing sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the biscuit baking mix, ground pork sausage, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl of a stand mixer. Attach the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should come together to form a uniform, slightly sticky dough. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can mix by hand in a large bowl, ensuring you really get in there and squeeze the ingredients together until well incorporated.
- Form the Balls: The next invaluable tip is to use a cookie scoop (about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons in size). This handy tool makes forming equal-sized balls incredibly fast and efficient, ensuring consistent baking and a professional appearance. Scoop equal portions of the mixture, then lightly roll them between your palms to form smooth, uniform balls.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the formed sausage balls onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are lightly golden brown on the outside and cooked through. It’s important to avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry sausage balls. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven. Allow the cooked sausage cheese balls to cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. This brief cooling period helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
Voila! You now have a batch of quick, easy, and utterly delicious Bisquick sausage balls, perfect as a festive appetizer for holidays, a crowd-pleasing snack for parties, or the ultimate bite for game days!
Serving Suggestions for Your Sausage Balls
These savory sausage balls are so incredibly flavorful, they are absolutely amazing served all on their own! Their crispy exterior and cheesy, meaty interior make them a perfect stand-alone snack. However, if you want to elevate the experience or offer a variety of flavors, serving them with a dipping sauce is a fantastic idea.
Here are some popular and delicious dipping sauce options:
- Honey Mustard: The sweet and tangy notes of honey mustard perfectly complement the savory sausage and cheese.
- Whole Grain Mustard: For a more robust and slightly spicy flavor, a whole grain mustard adds a wonderful textural element.
- Dijon Mustard: A classic choice, Dijon offers a sharp, pungent kick that cuts through the richness of the sausage.
- Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite! From sweet and smoky to tangy and spicy, barbecue sauce is a universal crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with pork sausage.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, ranch offers a cooling contrast to the savory balls, especially if you opted for a spicier sausage.
- Maple Syrup: For a delightful breakfast or brunch twist, a drizzle or dip in warm maple syrup creates an unexpected but delicious sweet and savory combination.
- Spicy Aioli: Mix mayonnaise with a touch of sriracha or hot sauce, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lime juice for a creamy, spicy dip.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sausage Balls Every Time
To ensure your Bisquick sausage balls turn out perfectly golden, crispy, and flavorful, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Homemade Baking Mix Substitute: If you find yourself without Bisquick or another store-bought baking mix, don’t worry! You can easily make your own. Simply substitute 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. You’ll also need to add 1/4 cup of cold butter or shortening, cut into small pieces and cut into the flour mixture, or 1/4 cup of vegetable oil to replicate the fat content.
- Check for Doneness with a Thermometer: The best way to ensure your sausage balls are fully cooked and safe to eat is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the center of a sausage ball, and it should register an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (71°C). This eliminates any guesswork and guarantees food safety.
- Don’t Overmix: While a stand mixer is excellent for combining ingredients quickly, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tough and chewy sausage balls rather than light and tender ones. Mix just until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Cold Ingredients for Best Texture: Starting with cold sausage and cheese can help prevent the mixture from becoming too sticky and greasy during mixing, making it easier to handle and form into balls.
- Even Sizing Matters: Using a cookie scoop not only speeds up the process but also ensures that all your sausage balls are roughly the same size. This promotes even baking, meaning no undercooked centers or overbaked edges.
Exciting Variations to Customize Your Sausage Balls
While the classic Bisquick sausage ball recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to create new flavor profiles that cater to your personal preferences or specific occasions:
- Amp Up the Heat: For those who like a little kick, swap out mild ground sausage for hot sausage. You can also mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the dough for an extra fiery punch.
- Healthier Alternatives: Consider using ground turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead of pork for a leaner option. Keep in mind that turkey or chicken sausage is often drier, so you might need to add a tablespoon or two of milk or a little extra shredded cheese to maintain moisture and help the mixture bind together.
- Breakfast Bliss: For a truly breakfast-inspired treat, use maple-flavored sausage. The sweet and savory combination is absolutely delightful and pairs wonderfully with a side of scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.
- Cheese Exploration: Don’t limit yourself to sharp cheddar! Experiment with various shredded cheeses. Pepper Jack will add a mild spice, Monterey Jack offers a creamy, mellow flavor, Colby Jack provides a smooth blend, and even mozzarella or provolone can work, though they might be less traditional. Feel free to mix a couple of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Herb & Spice Boost: Incorporate additional seasonings into your mixture. A teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of dried chives or parsley can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Veggie Add-ins: Finely diced jalapeños (deseeded for less heat), green onions, or even a tablespoon of finely chopped bell peppers can add texture and flavor. Just ensure they are very finely chopped to mix well and cook evenly within the small balls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bisquick Sausage Balls
This is a common issue that usually indicates an imbalance in the ingredient ratio, specifically too much baking mix relative to the sausage and cheese. The mixture needs enough moisture and fat to bind effectively. If your mixture feels too dry or crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches a cohesive, manageable consistency. Another factor is the mixing method; using a stand mixer is highly recommended as it thoroughly incorporates the ingredients, making them much more likely to hold together when formed. With our precise recipe and the stand mixer technique, you should find this problem rarely occurs.
Absolutely! Bisquick sausage balls are excellent for making ahead, saving you precious time, especially when preparing for events. If you want to prep a day or two in advance, form the balls as directed, then arrange them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply place them in the preheated oven. For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked balls: form them, place them on a parchment-lined baking tray in a single layer, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the solid balls into a freezer bag or an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from frozen, but you will need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through.
Keeping sausage balls warm and delicious at a party is easy! The best method is to use a slow cooker (Crock-Pot). Once your sausage balls are baked and ready, simply set your slow cooker to its “warm” setting. Transfer the cooked sausage balls into the warm Crock-Pot, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This will keep them perfectly warm for several hours without drying them out. Alternatively, if your oven has a “warm” setting (usually around 170-200°F or 75-90°C), you can keep them in the oven on a low temperature, lightly covered with foil, for a short period.
Yes, both cooked and uncooked sausage balls can be stored effectively. For cooked sausage balls, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, store them in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave for a quick warm-up or pop them in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
For freezing cooked sausage balls, ensure they are completely cool. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as described above. You can also reheat them from frozen in the oven, adding extra time until they are hot in the center.
More Irresistible Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re constantly on the hunt for delicious and easy appetizer recipes that will impress your guests or simply satisfy your snack cravings, look no further! Here are some other fantastic options that are sure to be a hit:
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
These zesty meatballs are packed with the classic spicy and tangy flavor of buffalo wings, but in a convenient bite-sized form.
Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Exploding with spicy, sticky, and slightly sweet flavor, these firecracker chicken meatballs are an addictive appetizer that’s hard to resist.
Sausage Pretzel Bites
Combining the best of both worlds, these sausage pretzel bites feature savory sausage wrapped in soft pretzel dough, perfect for dipping.
Sausage Balls Recipe
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- 2 cups original Bisquick baking mix (or similar biscuit mix)
- 1 pound bulk ground pork sausage (regular or spicy)
- 10 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
-
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the Bisquick baking mix, bulk ground pork sausage, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a cohesive dough. (Alternatively, mix by hand in a large bowl, ensuring ingredients are fully incorporated).2 cups baking mix, 1 pound bulk pork sausage, regular or spicy, 10 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
-
Using a cookie scoop (approximately 1.5-2 tablespoons), scoop equal portions of the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, round balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the sausage balls are lightly golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overbaking, as they can dry out. The internal temperature should be 160°F (71°C). Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Freezing Cooked Sausage Balls – Once cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen in the oven, adding extra baking time.
Make Ahead (Unbaked) – To prep in advance, form the balls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, form the balls, place unbaked balls on a parchment-lined baking tray, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag/container and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen as directed, but add 5-10 extra minutes to baking time.
Homemade Biscuit Mix – If you don’t have Bisquick, you can substitute with 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup cold butter (cut into small pieces and cut into the flour mixture).
Nutrition