Sausage Cheese Balls

These cheesy sausage balls are perfect for gatherings or a quick warm snack when you need something comforting and savory without much fuss

My family requests these every winter and I love how the sharp cheddar melts into the sausage creating a bite that is both rich and satisfying

Ingredients

• Ground breakfast sausage: provides the savory base and richness look for fresh sausage with balanced seasoning
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: adds tangy sharpness and melts perfectly for texture choose freshly shredded for best melting
• Large eggs: help bind everything together while adding moisture for a tender bite

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even browning

Mix Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl combine the ground sausage shredded sharp cheddar cheese and eggs using your hands or a sturdy spoon until the mixture is fully blended and cohesive

Shape Balls:

Use your hands to shape the mixture into balls about two tablespoons each for larger bites or one tablespoon for smaller bites this keeps the sizes consistent for even cooking

Arrange on Sheet:

Place each formed ball onto the prepared baking sheet leaving enough space between each to allow air circulation during baking for even browning

Bake Until Golden:

Bake the balls for about forty minutes if you are making large ones or around twenty minutes for the smaller size until they are firm and deeply golden brown

Serve Warm:

Serve these warm on a platter with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch honey mustard or maple syrup for a fun touch

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I love using extra sharp cheddar for these and it brings out a tang that pairs well with the sausage my kids often sneak one straight off the tray when they come out of the oven and we usually enjoy them during weekend family brunches

Storage Tips

Store cooked sausage cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days to reheat place them in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until warmed through which helps them stay crispy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap sharp cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier bite or use a mild cheddar if you want a gentler flavor for kids you can also add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning into the mixture for a herby twist

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these with fresh fruit a small salad or alongside scrambled eggs for a balanced brunch plate they also make a great addition to holiday appetizer spreads or football gatherings with dipping sauces

Cultural Context

Sausage cheese balls have long been a Southern brunch and party classic often served at gatherings for their ease and comforting flavors they became popular for holiday parties in the mid century and remain a staple in many family kitchens for their simplicity

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use pre-cooked sausage for these cheese balls?

Using raw ground sausage is best for binding and moisture. Pre-cooked sausage may lead to dryness and crumbling during baking.

→ How do I prevent the cheese balls from becoming greasy?

Using sharp cheddar helps balance richness, and baking on parchment allows grease to drain. Avoid high-fat sausage if reducing grease.

→ Can I freeze sausage cheese balls?

Yes, shape and freeze raw on a tray, then store in bags. You can also freeze baked balls and reheat directly from frozen.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with sausage cheese balls?

They pair well with ranch, honey mustard, maple syrup, or spicy mustard for a sweet or tangy contrast to the savory flavor.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, but sharp cheddar provides the best flavor. You can try pepper jack for heat or gouda for a milder, creamy bite.