Imagine the aroma of sizzling sausage and melting cheddar wafting through your kitchen.
Southern Sausage Balls are a comforting, simple delight that come together with ease, promising a cozy experience with every bite.
As the ingredients mingle, a delicious transformation occurs, turning humble components into a crowd-pleasing favorite.
These bite-sized wonders are perfect for any gathering.
Let’s bring this dish to life and savor the warmth of Southern hospitality!
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage, uncooked
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Southern Sausage Balls, follow this timeline:
- Read and Understand Recipe (5 minutes)
- Before starting, take about 5 minutes to carefully read through the entire recipe, including the ingredients and instructions. This will guarantee you’re familiar with the steps and have all necessary ingredients and equipment ready.
- Prep Work (15 minutes)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) as the first step.
- While the oven is preheating, gather all ingredients and equipment.
- Measure out 1 pound of uncooked sausage, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of baking mix.
- Measure 1/4 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Forming Sausage Balls (5 minutes)
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cooking Time (20 minutes)
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the sausage balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Resting Time (5 minutes)
- Remove the sausage balls from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Feel free to adjust the timeline as needed to suit your pace and kitchen setup.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage, cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Mix ingredients until thoroughly combined.
Shape mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dips such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.
- Vegetable Platter: Pair with fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and cherry tomatoes for a balanced appetizer spread.
- Cheese and Crackers: Complement with a selection of cheeses and crackers to create a hearty snack board.
- Bread Rolls: Offer alongside warm bread rolls or mini biscuits for a Southern-style brunch or breakfast.
- Fruit Skewers: Add a revitalizing touch with skewers of seasonal fruits like grapes, pineapple, and melon.
Storage
Store Southern Sausage Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer.
Reheat as needed.
Freezing
To freeze Southern Sausage Balls, place them on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid.
Then transfer to an airtight container.
Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating
To reheat Southern Sausage Balls, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Southern sausage balls are a classic appetizer that brings a taste of the South to any gathering.
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, these savory bites are quick and easy to make.
The combination of sausage, cheddar cheese, and baking mix creates a delightful flavor and texture.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding spicy sausage or a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the taste.
These sausage balls can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making them a convenient option for entertaining.
Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a snack, Southern sausage balls are sure to be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Make These Sausage Balls Gluten-Free?
Substitute the baking mix with a gluten-free blend. Make certain it’s well-integrated with sausage, cheddar, and spices for cohesive texture. Opt for high-quality gluten-free ingredients to maintain flavor. Adjust baking time if necessary, making sure they’re cooked through.
What Type of Sausage Works Best for This Recipe?
You should opt for fresh, high-quality pork sausage with balanced fat content. It guarantees moisture and flavor infusion as it cooks. Consider spicy sausage for a piquant kick, enhancing the dish’s savory profile with culinary finesse.
Can I Substitute a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like pepper jack for added heat. Make certain the cheese melts well, blending seamlessly into the mixture, enhancing the flavor profile. Experiment with combinations for a unique culinary twist.
Are There Vegetarian Alternatives to the Sausage Used?
You can substitute vegetarian sausage for a meat-free option. Choose plant-based sausage with robust flavors to complement the dish. Guarantee uniform mixing with cheese and baking mix for consistent texture. Adjust seasonings to enhance taste.
How Can I Make the Sausage Balls Less Greasy?
To reduce greasiness, use lean sausage and blot excess oil after baking. Consider incorporating breadcrumbs or oats to absorb fat. Make certain your baking sheet is lined with parchment for even heat distribution and easy cleanup.
Southern Sausage Balls
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage uncooked
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 1/2 cups baking mix
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage, cheddar cheese, baking mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Mix ingredients until thoroughly combined.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
