Picture the aroma of sizzling sausage mingling with melted cheddar cheese, wafting through your kitchen.
There’s something comforting about these breakfast sausage balls that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning.
Simple and quick to prepare, they transform humble ingredients into golden, savory bites that are sure to become a family favorite.
Let’s bring this delightful dish to life and start your day with a touch of homemade goodness.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 wire rack
- 1 parchment paper sheet
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 spatula
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Breakfast Sausage Balls, you can follow this timeline:
- Reading and Gathering Ingredients/Equipment (5 minutes):
- Spend a few minutes reading the recipe thoroughly.
- Gather all necessary ingredients and equipment listed.
- Prepping Ingredients (5 minutes):
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mixing Ingredients (5 minutes):
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Use your hands to mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shaping Sausage Balls (5 minutes):
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Baking (20 minutes):
- Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Resting and Serving (5 minutes):
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the sausage balls to a wire rack.
- Allow the sausage balls to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Adjust as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Use your hands to mix the ingredients until well combined.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the sausage balls to a wire rack.
Allow the sausage balls to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling maple syrup over the sausage balls for a delightful flavor contrast.
- Scrambled Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a well-rounded, protein-packed breakfast.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Pair with a fresh fruit salad to add a revitalizing, sweet element to the meal.
- Breakfast Potatoes: Complement the sausage balls with crispy breakfast potatoes for a hearty morning feast.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or spicy ketchup, for added flavor options.
Storage
To store breakfast sausage balls, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheat before serving.
Freezing
To freeze breakfast sausage balls, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid.
Then, transfer to an airtight container for up to three months.
Reheating
To reheat breakfast sausage balls, use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave them in 30-second intervals until warmed.
Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Final Thoughts
Breakfast Sausage Balls are a delightful and easy breakfast option that packs a lot of flavor into each bite.
With a simple combination of pork sausage, cheddar cheese, and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time.
These savory bites are perfect for busy mornings or as a crowd-pleasing addition to a brunch spread.
The key to perfect sausage balls is ensuring that the ingredients are well combined.
Finely shredded cheese helps it incorporate evenly throughout the mixture.
If you’re a fan of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or opting for hot sausage to give the balls an extra kick.
These sausage balls are versatile and can be prepared ahead of time.
Once cooked, they can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them a convenient option for quick breakfasts on busy days.
Simply reheat them as needed, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage for This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can swap in your favorite sausage variety. Opt for spicy chorizo for a fiery kick, or go mild with chicken sausage. Each choice offers a unique flavor profile, transforming your dish’s aroma and taste.
How Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
To make these gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. You’ll notice a nutty aroma and texture. Blend thoroughly for even distribution, ensuring each bite remains savory and satisfying. Enjoy your gluten-free creation!
Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives for This Recipe?
Swap the pork sausage for a plant-based meat alternative, ensuring it’s crumbled finely for a cohesive texture. Use a vegan cheese, keeping it finely shredded. Enhance flavors with smoked paprika or herbs, maintaining a savory, satisfying experience.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Breakfast Sausage Balls?
You should pair them with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, or buttery avocado slices. Add a revitalizing fruit salad for a juicy contrast. These sides create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, elevating your meal.
How Do I Prevent the Sausage Balls From Becoming Too Dry?
Guarantee moisture by not overbaking; they should emerge golden and juicy. Incorporate finely shredded cheese to melt seamlessly, binding the mixture. Opt for fattier sausage to maintain succulence. Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances flavor depth.
Breakfast Sausage Balls
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Wire rack
- 1 parchment paper sheet
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Use your hands to mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the sausage balls to a wire rack.
- Allow the sausage balls to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
