Sausage Balls Recipe

Ground sausage: This is the main protein component, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy and sharp taste that complements the sausage.

Baking mix: Acts as a binder and gives the sausage balls their structure.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic note.

Onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese.

When mixing the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix, use your hands to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This method helps to incorporate the garlic powder and onion powder more thoroughly, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive mixture.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of sausage.

• ground sausage - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef provides a similar texture and can be flavored with additional spices to replicate sausage.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: Mozzarella has a milder flavor but melts well and provides a similar texture.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack has a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• baking mix - Substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder: Combine 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder to create a homemade baking mix.

• baking mix - Substitute with almond flour and baking powder: For a gluten-free option, use 1.5 cups of almond flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Use 1 clove of fresh minced garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with garlic salt: Use garlic salt in place of garlic powder, but reduce or eliminate any additional salt in the recipe.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Use ¼ cup of finely chopped onions for a fresh onion flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with shallot powder: Shallot powder provides a similar but slightly sweeter flavor compared to onion powder.

• To store your delightful sausage balls in the refrigerator, allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Once the sausage balls have cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. This prevents them from sticking together.

• After the sausage balls are frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat the sausage balls directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the frozen sausage balls on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

• Alternatively, you can thaw the sausage balls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This method ensures even heating and maintains their delicious texture.

• For a quick snack, you can also reheat the sausage balls in the microwave. Place a few on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking at intervals to ensure they are warmed through.

• To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid reheating sausage balls multiple times. Reheat only the amount you plan to consume immediately.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior and juicy interior.

• Microwave Method: Place the sausage balls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make them rubbery.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sausage balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will help retain their crispy texture.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the sausage balls in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are warmed through. This method adds a slight crispiness to the exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage balls on a baking tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-12 minutes or until they are hot. This is a convenient method if you're reheating a small batch.

• Oven: Used to bake the sausage balls at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the sausage balls on for baking.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the baking mix and cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder and onion powder precisely.

• Wooden spoon: Helpful for mixing the ingredients together in the large mixing bowl.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

• Cooling rack: Allows the sausage balls to cool slightly after baking without becoming soggy.

• Kitchen scale: Optional, but can be used to ensure the sausage is exactly 1 lb.

• Hands: Used to form the mixture into 1-inch balls.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine the baking mix, garlic powder, and onion powder ahead of time to save minutes during preparation.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform sausage balls and speeds up the forming process.

Shred cheese in advance: Shred the cheddar cheese beforehand and store it in the fridge to cut down on prep time.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing ingredients to ensure it's ready when you are.

Batch bake: Use multiple baking sheets to bake all sausage balls at once, reducing overall cooking time.