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Sausage cheese balls are an easy crowd-pleaser perfect for parties and casual gatherings. With just three simple ingredients sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and eggs these bites deliver rich, savory flavor with minimal effort. They can be prepared quickly, frozen for convenience, and served warm with a variety of dipping sauces.
I first started making these for last-minute gatherings and was amazed how impressed guests were despite the simple ingredients. They have become my go-to when I want to bring something reliable and delicious without fuss.
Ingredients
- Ground breakfast sausage: choose well-seasoned quality sausage for robust flavor
- Sharp cheddar cheese: the sharpness balances the richness of the sausage
- Fresh eggs: act as a binder to hold the mixture together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Magic Combination:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and eggs. Mix thoroughly using your hands until the mixture is uniform and holds together well.
- Choose Your Size:
- For larger sausage balls, scoop approximately two tablespoons of the mixture per ball. For cocktail-sized minis, use about one tablespoon per ball. Both sizes work well depending on your event.
- Shape and Arrange:
- Roll the mixture gently into balls and place them evenly spaced on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Rustic shapes are charming and add a homemade feel.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Bake the large balls for about 40 minutes or the mini ones for 20 minutes until they are firm to touch and golden brown all over.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve them hot from the oven when the cheese is melty and flavors are at their peak. Offer alongside your favorite dipping sauces for extra appeal.
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Storage Tips
Store cooked sausage balls in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze in airtight containers for up to two months. You can also freeze them shaped but uncooked and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This flexibility helps manage busy schedules and entertaining plans.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try spicy Italian sausage for a flavor kick or maple breakfast sausage for a subtle sweetness. Pepper jack cheese adds heat, Swiss cheese brings a milder taste, and finely diced jalapeños or herbs can add color and freshness to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm on a platter with dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or chive sour cream. Maple syrup makes a surprisingly tasty dip for breakfast gatherings. Provide small plates and napkins as these treats can be a little messy but are definitely worth it.
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I especially love how versatile this recipe is. One holiday season, I made a batch ahead and froze them they reheated beautifully and were the star of the party.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. You can form the balls and freeze them for up to two months. Bake from frozen with a few extra minutes of time.
- → What type of sausage works best?
Breakfast sausage provides the best flavor and texture. Use mild, medium, or spicy depending on preference.
- → Can I use different cheese?
Sharp cheddar works best for flavor. Pepper jack or cheese blends are good alternatives. Avoid soft cheeses.
- → How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown and reach 160°F inside. Large ones take 40 minutes, minis about 20.
- → What are the best dipping sauces?
Ranch, honey mustard, maple syrup, or chive sour cream pair well. Spicy mayo is also a fun twist.