Looking for the perfect party snack or a grab-and-go breakfast that checks all the boxes—savory, cheesy, easy, and satisfying? You’re in the right place! This sausage balls recipe guide covers everything from the classic three-ingredient version to exciting twists like keto-friendly and spicy variations. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this step-by-step guide will help you whip up sausage balls that are juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, and bursting with flavor.
In this guide, we’ll explore ingredients, techniques, cooking tips, storage hacks, and answer burning questions like: Should you cook the sausage first? and What’s the best cheese to use? So let’s roll (pun totally intended)!
What Are Sausage Balls and Why Everyone Loves Them
What are sausage balls?
Sausage Balls are exactly what they sound like—small, round bites made from a savory combo of sausage, biscuit mix, and cheese. Think of them as the lovechild of a meatball and a biscuit, but with a cheesy, Southern twist. They’re golden, meaty, slightly crumbly, and deeply satisfying. You can serve them hot or cold, with dips or on their own.
While often seen at holiday parties, potlucks, or game-day spreads, these cheesy sausage bites are also perfect for meal prepping. Pop a few in your lunchbox or reheat them for a quick, protein-packed breakfast. And yes, they taste even better the next day—if they last that long!
The history and Southern roots of sausage balls
The sausage balls recipe may seem like a modern Pinterest favorite, but these little gems have been passed down in Southern kitchens for decades. They first gained serious traction in mid-century America when Bisquick became a household staple. Quick, hearty, and made with pantry basics, they became a go-to dish for Southern grandmas trying to feed a crowd on a budget.
Down South, it’s almost criminal to show up at a holiday gathering without a tray of these savory sausage cheddar balls. From Christmas brunches to Super Bowl Sundays, they’ve earned their place as a true comfort food classic. And the best part? You can make them your own with a few easy twists (we’ll get to those soon!)
Classic Sausage Balls Recipe – 3 Ingredients, Infinite Flavor
Traditional sausage balls recipe (with Bisquick)
You don’t need to be a pro chef to whip up a mouthwatering sausage balls recipe. In fact, this timeless favorite only calls for three humble ingredients: pork sausage, Bisquick baking mix, and shredded sharp Cheddar cheese. That’s it!
Here’s the basic formula:
- 1 lb pork sausage (mild or hot, your call)
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix
- 1 lb sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Just mix them all together (hands work best), roll into walnut-sized balls, and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn a lovely golden brown and your kitchen smells like cheesy heaven.
What makes this dish shine is the balance of savory sausage, rich cheese, and fluffy biscuit texture. Whether it’s for brunch or a game-day snack, these biscuit mix sausage balls always disappear fast!
Step-by-step guide to making sausage balls
Making sausage cheddar balls is as easy as pie—but a few pro tips will take your batch from good to great:
- Room temp sausage: It mixes easier and binds better.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can mess with the texture.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark. Overcooking dries them out.
- Space them out: Use a parchment-lined sheet to prevent sticking and allow even cooking.
Once they’re done, serve ‘em warm with your favorite dip. These cheesy sausage bites also make great leftovers!
Ingredient Guide for the Perfect Sausage Balls
Best sausage to use for sausage balls (hot vs. mild)
Let’s talk sausage—because not all sausage is created equal. For this sausage balls recipe, the type of sausage you use can totally change the flavor. Mild pork sausage is the classic go-to, but if you want to spice things up, try hot breakfast sausage or even sage-flavored varieties.
Craving more flavor depth? Blend half spicy and half mild sausage for a sweet-heat combo. And yes, chicken or turkey sausage can work too if you’re cutting back on fat—just make sure it’s not too lean or your balls might turn out dry and crumbly.
Cheddar vs. other cheeses – which melts best?
Sharp cheddar is the MVP here. Its bold flavor stands up well to the sausage, and it melts like a dream. But hey, don’t be afraid to get creative. Try mixing in:
- Pepper jack for a kick
- Gouda for smoky sweetness
- Mozzarella for gooey pull-apart texture
One rule: always grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded options often include anti-clumping starches, which can affect how the cheese melts.
Bisquick and its substitutes (e.g., almond flour, pancake mix)
Can’t find Bisquick? No worries! You’ve got options:
- Homemade biscuit mix (flour, baking powder, salt, and butter)
- Pancake mix (like Kodiak Cakes) for a touch of sweetness
- Almond flour for a keto sausage balls version
Just remember to adjust the liquid content and keep an eye on the dough texture. Too crumbly? Add a splash of milk or water.
If you’re planning a full Southern feast, pair these sausage balls with a warm side of southern cornbread for a true down-home experience.
Creative Variations of Sausage Balls Recipes
Cream cheese sausage balls (4-ingredient twist)
If you think the classic sausage balls recipe couldn’t get any better, just wait till you try it with cream cheese. This dreamy variation adds a rich, smooth texture that keeps the balls super moist—and seriously addicting.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb sausage (hot or mild)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups baking mix
- 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar
Mix everything together (cream cheese first, then sausage, then the rest) until you get a thick, sticky dough. Roll into balls and bake like usual at 350°F for about 25 minutes. These cream cheese sausage balls are perfect for brunch spreads or holiday platters!
Keto sausage balls (low carb & gluten-free)
Watching your carbs? No problem. You can enjoy this savory snack without the guilt by swapping out the biscuit mix for almond flour or coconut flour. Bonus points if you use a sugar-free breakfast sausage.
A keto sausage ball combo might look like this:
- 1 lb spicy sausage
- 1 ¼ cups almond flour
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar
- Optional: 1 tsp baking powder and 1 egg for better texture
These low-carb bites still deliver that cheesy, meaty punch—just without the grains. Serve them with sugar-free mustard or ranch and you’ve got a keto-friendly hit on your hands.
Spicy sausage balls with jalapeño or pepper jack cheese
Ready to turn up the heat? Toss in diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. You can even mix in a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for extra zing.
These spicy sausage balls are great for game day, especially if served with a creamy dip to balance the heat.
For more delicious comfort food ideas, check out our full list of home-style recipes.
Cooking Techniques – Baked, Air Fried, or Frozen
How to bake sausage balls to golden perfection
Baking is the tried-and-true method for making sausage balls. It’s simple, hands-off, and always dependable. Just preheat your oven to 350°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes.
Make sure the sausage balls are spaced out evenly so they cook through without sticking together. Once the edges turn a nice golden brown and the internal temp hits 160°F, they’re good to go!
If you want that crusty outside and juicy inside, consider flipping them halfway through baking. It helps even out the browning.
Air fryer sausage balls: Fast and crispy
Want faster results with a crispier bite? Toss those cheesy sausage bites into the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, cook in batches for 10–12 minutes, and shake the basket halfway through. The result? Golden, slightly crispy sausage balls with less grease.
This method is great if you’re short on time—or patience!
Freezing sausage balls before or after baking
Life gets busy. That’s why sausage balls are freezer-friendly, making them a total lifesaver for parties, holidays, or hectic mornings.
To freeze raw: Roll the mixture into balls, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. When ready to bake, add 5 extra minutes to your cook time.
To freeze baked: Let them cool completely, then freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave when hunger hits.
Either way, your sausage balls recipe becomes a convenient go-to any time you need a quick, tasty bite.
What to Serve with Sausage Balls
Best dipping sauces for sausage balls
A great sausage balls recipe is all about flavor, but let’s be honest—dips make everything better. Whether you’re hosting brunch, a party, or just need a snack upgrade, the right sauce can take those cheesy bites to the next level.
Here are a few crowd-pleasing favorites:
- Honey mustard: Sweet and tangy, it cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Spicy brown mustard: Adds boldness without overpowering.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy and cool, it’s a safe bet that pleases everyone.
- Sriracha mayo: For a spicy twist, mix mayo with a dash of sriracha.
- BBQ sauce: Great for a smoky, Southern-style pairing.
Want to get fancy? Whip up a cheese sauce or garlic aioli for extra flair. Just set out a few options and watch your guests hover near the snack table all night long.
Pairing sausage balls with meals: Breakfast, brunch, and game day
Sausage balls aren’t just for parties—they’re surprisingly versatile. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and fruit for a hearty breakfast, or include them on a brunch board with biscuits, bacon, and jam.
For lunch or dinner, they work well with soups and salads. And of course, they shine on any game-day appetizer spread. Pair them with baked beans for a true Southern combo that’s both comforting and filling.
No matter how you serve them, one thing’s for sure—these savory bites always get eaten first.
Troubleshooting Sausage Balls – Dry, Crumbly, or Greasy?
Why are my sausage balls dry or cakey?
It happens to the best of us. You follow a sausage balls recipe to the letter, and yet… they turn out dry or tough. Don’t worry—there are some simple fixes.
First, double-check your biscuit mix. Using too much can lead to dry, dense results. Try reducing the amount slightly next time or adding a splash of milk or water to moisten the dough.
Also, don’t skimp on the cheese! Freshly grated cheese adds both fat and moisture, helping the balls stay soft inside. And remember: don’t overbake—even a few extra minutes in the oven can suck the life out of them.
Tips for better texture (add moisture, mix thoroughly)
For extra tender sausage balls, mix your ingredients well—but not too much. You want the dough fully combined but still soft and pliable. If the mix feels too crumbly, add a tablespoon or two of milk or even a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. It makes a big difference.
On the flip side, if your sausage balls turn out greasy, it may be the type of sausage you’re using. Leaner blends or a mix of pork and turkey can help reduce excess oil.
Getting the perfect texture may take a batch or two, but once you dial it in, you’ll be making them on autopilot.
Storing and Reheating Sausage Balls
How to refrigerate and reheat sausage balls
Let’s face it—when you make a big batch of your favorite sausage balls recipe, leftovers are bound to happen (unless they get devoured immediately). Thankfully, these savory bites store and reheat like champs.
To refrigerate, simply let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to reheat, you’ve got options. The oven works best—just bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep that crisp edge. For a quick fix, microwave for 20–30 seconds, though you might lose some of the crunch.
Best containers and microwave/oven reheating methods
Use glass containers or resealable bags to store them—just make sure they’re sealed tight. Want to keep them from drying out in the microwave? Add a damp paper towel over the top. Or better yet, use a toaster oven for that golden finish.
Nutrition and Dietary Alternatives
Calories and macros in traditional sausage balls
Here’s the deal—this sausage balls recipe isn’t exactly health food, but it is packed with protein and flavor. On average, one ball contains around 250–270 calories, depending on your sausage and cheese choices. You’ll also get a good dose of fat, about 13g of protein, and a few carbs from the baking mix.
If you’re watching your sodium or saturated fat, consider using lean sausage or low-fat cheese to lighten things up without losing flavor.
Gluten-free and vegetarian sausage ball options
Don’t worry—there’s room at the table for everyone. Swap out the biscuit mix for a gluten-free version or almond flour if you’re cutting carbs. And yes, you can go meat-free! Use a plant-based sausage and vegan cheese for a vegetarian twist.
The texture will be a bit different, but the flavor? Still delicious. So no matter your diet, there’s a way to enjoy this classic sausage balls recipe.
FAQs About Sausage Balls
What are the ingredients for sausage balls?
At its core, the sausage balls recipe is delightfully simple. The traditional version includes just three ingredients:
- Ground pork sausage (hot or mild)
- Biscuit baking mix (like Bisquick)
- Shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
That’s it! Some folks add cream cheese for extra moisture or a splash of milk to help bind the mixture. You can also toss in herbs, garlic powder, or a pinch of cayenne for added flavor.
Even better, the ingredients are flexible. Want to go gluten-free or low-carb? Use almond flour or a grain-free mix instead of Bisquick. Craving more spice? Swap in pepper jack cheese or hot sausage.
Should you cook sausage before making sausage balls?
Nope! That’s one of the best parts of the sausage balls recipe—you mix the sausage in raw. As the balls bake, the sausage cooks through while the cheese melts and the biscuit mix firms up.
However, there’s one big tip: make sure the sausage is at room temperature before mixing. Cold sausage is tough to work with and might not bind well with the other ingredients.
What can I use instead of Bisquick in sausage balls?
If you’re out of Bisquick, don’t sweat it. You can make your own with pantry staples: mix 1 cup flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp salt, and 1 tbsp cold butter or shortening. Blend it all until crumbly.
Other good substitutes include pancake mix, gluten-free baking mix, or even almond flour for a keto twist. Just adjust the moisture as needed.
What goes well with sausage balls?
Sausage balls are super versatile! They pair beautifully with:
- Dips like ranch, spicy mustard, or BBQ sauce
- Breakfast sides like scrambled eggs or fruit
- Southern staples like baked beans or southern cornbread
- Party platters with cheese, crackers, and veggies
Whether you’re serving them for brunch, game day, or a quick snack, they’re always a hit.