If you’ve ever needed a quick, crowd-pleasing snack that disappears the moment it hits the table, these Classic Sausage Balls are the answer. Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, they’re perfect for breakfasts, parties, potlucks, or game day spreads.
This simple recipe uses just a few ingredients — sausage, cheese, and baking mix — yet delivers big on flavor. Whether you serve them with dipping sauces or enjoy them straight out of the oven, these golden bites are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only a few ingredients: You need just sausage, cheese, and baking mix.
- No fancy tools required: One bowl, one baking sheet, and you’re done.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can freeze them before or after baking.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or entertaining guests.
- Crowd favorite: Everyone loves the mix of cheesy, meaty, and savory flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb (450 g) ground pork sausage – mild, hot, or breakfast style
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar adds the best flavor
- 1½ cups (180 g) Bisquick baking mix – or homemade substitute
- 2–3 tbsp milk – to help the dough come together
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional) – for extra flavor
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
- ¼ tsp black pepper – freshly ground
Homemade Bisquick Substitute
If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, you can make your own simple mix in just a few minutes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cold butter, cut into small cubes
Mix together until crumbly — and you have a perfect homemade baking mix!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick mix, and seasonings.
Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together easily. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about the size of a walnut).
Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
The sausage should be sizzling, and the cheese slightly crispy at the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the sausage balls cool for 5 minutes before serving.
They taste amazing with dips like ranch dressing, spicy mayo, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Balls
- Use fresh sausage: The flavor and texture are best when the sausage is not frozen.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined — overworking the dough can make them tough.
- Add flavor: Try adding chopped green onions, shredded mozzarella, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra depth.
- Make ahead: Shape the balls, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen — just add 3–5 extra minutes.
- Reheat easily: Warm leftovers in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness.
Storage and Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store cooked sausage balls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months either before or after baking.
- To reheat: Bake from frozen or microwave briefly until warm.
Serving Ideas
Sausage Balls are incredibly versatile. Try serving them:
- As part of a holiday brunch spread with scrambled eggs and fruit.
- At a party alongside dipping sauces and cheese platters.
- For game day with chips, sliders, and wings.
- As an on-the-go breakfast you can reheat in seconds.
Final Thoughts
These Classic Sausage Balls are the kind of comfort food everyone loves — warm, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a party platter, or meal-prepping for the week, this easy recipe never fails.
Simple ingredients. Maximum flavor. Minimal effort.
That’s what makes these sausage balls a true timeless favorite.