Sausage Balls
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Sausage balls are a delightful treat that combines sausage, cheese, and spices into bite-sized morsels, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or looking for a quick snack, these savory bites are sure to please. They’re simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste, making them a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground sausage
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup baking mix (like Bisquick)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 sausage balls. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 3 sausage balls) contains about 300 calories, 20g fat, 18g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, shredded cheese, and baking mix.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the mixture.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, mixing until the dough is well combined.
5. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
6. Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley for presentation.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based sausage and vegan cheese. Adjust the seasonings to enhance flavor according to your preferences.
Serving and Pairings
Sausage balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing or barbecue sauce. They can also be served alongside fresh veggies or as part of a charcuterie board for a delightful snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sausage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. These sausage balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much liquid can make the mixture too wet.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overmixing the ingredients may result in tough sausage balls.
- Not measuring the ingredients accurately can affect consistency.
- Skipping the parchment paper can make cleanup difficult.
- Not letting them cool slightly can lead to them falling apart.
- Using low-quality sausage may compromise the flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized balls.
- Make a double batch for larger gatherings.
- Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make sausage balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Shape the balls and bake them just before serving for best results.
What type of sausage works best?
Pork sausage is traditional, but you can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Choose your favorite seasonings for added flavor.
Can I use gluten-free baking mix?
Absolutely! Substitute a gluten-free baking mix to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I know when sausage balls are done?
Sausage balls are done when they are golden brown and an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) is reached.
Can I freeze the cooked sausage balls?
Yes, cooked sausage balls can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Sausage balls are a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Whether for a party or a simple family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize the ingredients to match your taste preferences, and enjoy these savory bites anytime!
Sausage Balls
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup baking mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, shredded cheese, and baking mix.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the mixture.
- Gradually pour in the milk, mixing until the dough is well combined.
- Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for presentation.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
