If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, these sausage cheese balls are about to become your new go-to recipe. Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, they are the perfect bite-sized treat for game days, holiday parties, or any casual get-together. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip them up in no time and impress your guests with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
These sausage cheese balls strike the perfect balance between savory sausage and melty cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, tender dough. The recipe is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to satisfy even the most discerning palates. What makes this recipe stand out is how versatile it is — you can customize it to your taste preferences, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup.
Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy with family or a guaranteed hit at your next party, this recipe delivers every time. The sausage is juicy and flavorful, the cheese adds creaminess, and the outer coating provides a delightful crunch. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken sausage (ensure it is free from any non-permitted ingredients)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk (or a plant-based milk alternative)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little heat
How To Make Sausage Cheese Balls
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken sausage until it’s fully browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Step 4: Combine Cheese and Sausage
Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the flour mixture. Stir in the cooked sausage until well combined.
Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the melted butter and milk. Use a spoon or your hands to gently mix everything into a dough. The mixture should be sticky but hold together well. If it feels too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 6: Form the Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can turn them halfway through baking for even browning if you like.
Step 8: Serve
Allow the sausage cheese balls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Expert Tips
- Make sure the sausage is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure food safety and the best texture.
- If you want extra crispy cheese balls, consider rolling them in crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
- For a gooey center, use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar to get that melty stretch.
- Don’t overmix the dough; handle it just enough to combine all ingredients to keep the texture light and tender.
- Let the cheese balls cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from the hot cheese inside.
- Use a cookie scoop to keep the balls uniform in size for even baking.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for some heat.
- Herb Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or thyme for a fresh flavor boost.
- Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack or gouda instead of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Meat Alternatives: Substitute the chicken sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a different taste or dietary preference.
- Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory sausage.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover sausage cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture soggy.
For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked sausage cheese balls by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQ
Can I make these sausage cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great make-ahead appetizer for parties.
What type of sausage should I use for this recipe?
Ground chicken sausage works wonderfully here, but you can also use ground turkey sausage or any other sausage that fits your dietary preferences. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I bake these without cheese?
Cheese is a key ingredient that adds moisture and flavor, so omitting it would change the texture and taste significantly. If you want a dairy-free version, try using a dairy-free cheese alternative designed for baking.
Are these sausage cheese balls suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze both uncooked and cooked sausage cheese balls. Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a sealed container. Cooked balls should be cooled completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
These sausage cheese balls are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With a perfect blend of juicy sausage, melty cheese, and flavorful spices, they’re comfort food at its finest. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with the variations, you’ll love how simple it is to create these bite-sized delights. Keep this recipe handy for your next party, game day, or whenever you need a quick and tasty snack that everyone will devour. Happy cooking!
