Sausage Balls are a holiday favorite—perfect as an appetizer or a cozy Christmas morning breakfast bite. This easy, classic recipe is reliably delicious and simple to make, which is why many families consider it a must-have each year.
Sausage Balls
If you’ve tried Sausage Balls before, you know how irresistible they are. These bite-sized morsels are packed with flavor, easy to eat, and ideal for sharing at holiday gatherings. They’re hearty enough to satisfy and pair wonderfully with a savory dip like garlic aioli.
Some people serve Sausage Balls for breakfast instead of as an appetizer. If you prefer a sweet contrast in the morning, try serving them with pure maple syrup. Whether served with aioli or syrup, these Bisquick Sausage Balls are a crowd-pleaser.
The classic version relies on Bisquick baking mix to bind the ingredients, giving the balls a tender, consistent texture. Ground pork sausage, freshly shredded sharp cheddar, green onions, and a few seasonings round out the simple ingredient list.
How to Make Sausage Balls
These Sausage Balls are quick to assemble and bake, which makes them a favorite for busy mornings and party prep alike.
- Combine the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded sharp cheddar, ground pork sausage, Bisquick baking mix, chopped green onions, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Adjust moisture if needed. If the mixture feels too dry to shape, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it holds together.
- Form the balls. With clean hands, roll the mixture into walnut-sized balls (about 1 inch) and place them on a prepared baking sheet.
- Bake. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve. Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot with garlic aioli for dipping, or try maple syrup for a breakfast twist.
Pro Tips
These small tips help ensure the best texture and flavor for your Sausage Balls.
- Do not use pre-shredded cheese. Freshly shredding cheddar from a block retains moisture and prevents dry, crumbly sausage balls.
- Customize the heat. Swap regular pork sausage for a spicy variety or add red pepper flakes or pepper jack cheese for a bolder flavor.
- Fix dryness with milk. If the mixture won’t hold its shape, stir in milk a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- Chop green onions evenly to avoid large pieces in any one bite and to distribute flavor uniformly.
Storage
Store cooled Sausage Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation.
Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through, or reheat on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness.
Hosting a Holiday Party? Appetizer Ideas
- The Best Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
- Bacon Wrapped Dates
- Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Baked Brie with Fig Jam
For more party snack inspiration, follow your favorite food accounts on social platforms.
Sausage Balls Recipe
Equipment
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1 baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 pound shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 1 3/4 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 3 chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Garlic Aioli, optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350˚F.
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In a large bowl, combine the cheese, sausage, baking mix, green onions, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
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If the mixture seems too dry, add the milk one tablespoon at a time.
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Using clean hands, form the sausage mixture into walnut-size balls and arrange on a baking sheet.
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Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
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Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving platter.
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Serve hot with garlic aioli for dipping.
Notes
For more heat, use hot sausage or pepper jack cheese.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.