Sausage Cheese Balls Recipe
Sausage Cheese Balls are a perfect little bite of cheesy, meaty goodness that everyone seems to love. These flavorful balls combine savory sausage with sharp, melty cheese and a hint…
Tip: save now, cook later.Sausage Cheese Balls are a perfect little bite of cheesy, meaty goodness that everyone seems to love. These flavorful balls combine savory sausage with sharp, melty cheese and a hint of herbs, all rolled up into fun, snackable shapes. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them a great choice for parties, game days, or whenever you want something tasty and easy to eat.
I love making these sausage cheese balls because they’re so simple but always disappear fast. The mix of sausage and cheese gives them plenty of flavor without needing a lot of extra ingredients. I like to use a bit of garlic powder or onion powder to punch up the taste even more, and sometimes I add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little kick. They’re so easy to pop in the oven, and the smell as they bake is just irresistible.
These sausage cheese balls are really great served warm, right out of the oven, with a side of your favorite dipping sauce—like ranch or a spicy mustard. I’ve shared them at family gatherings and game nights, and they’re always a hit. If you have leftovers, they reheat nicely in the microwave or air fryer, so nothing goes to waste. They’re the kind of snack that brings people together and keeps fingers busy until the main meal is ready!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: Using breakfast sausage gives these cheese balls a mild and slightly sweet flavor. For a bit of heat, try spicy sausage or chorizo. Turkey sausage works too for a leaner option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy, rich taste and melts nicely. If you want a milder flavor, use mild cheddar or a blend with mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Flour: This helps bind the mixture and keeps the balls together. You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour if needed, though texture may change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a subtle salty depth. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good alternatives.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder boost flavor without extra chopping. Feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky or spicy twist.
How Do You Shape and Bake Sausage Cheese Balls Without Them Falling Apart?
Getting the cheese balls to hold their shape is key for nice texture and easy eating. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure all ingredients are mixed well, so the flour and egg can bind everything.
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to keep the balls uniform in size—about 1 to 1.5 inches works well.
- Press the mixture gently when shaping to avoid air pockets that could cause crumbling.
- Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts and sausage is cooked through.
- Let them rest a few minutes on the pan after baking—this helps them firm up a bit before serving.
Following these tips helps sausage cheese balls keep their shape, stay moist inside, and have a slightly crispy outside. Serve warm for the best taste!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for cooking sausage cheese balls evenly and catching drips.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – large enough to mix all ingredients without spilling.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – shapes uniform balls for even baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure you get the seasoning and flour just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for spicy Italian sausage to add a little heat.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, spicy flavor.
- Add finely chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, mild onion taste.
Sausage Cheese Balls Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (or spicy sausage if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Ranch dressing or ketchup for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and mix the ingredients, plus 20-25 minutes baking time. So, in just under 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep the sausage cheese balls from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, cheddar cheese, flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and egg. Mix everything well using your hands or a spoon until the mixture is evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the Sausage Cheese Balls:
Use a spoon or a cookie scoop to form the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
4. Bake and Cool:
Bake the balls in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the sausage is cooked all the way through and the cheese is melted and golden on top. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your sausage cheese balls to a serving plate, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and serve warm. Add your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing or ketchup for extra flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight before mixing. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for best results.
Can I Make Sausage Cheese Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and shape the balls, then refrigerate them on the baking sheet covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover sausage cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes, you can swap sharp cheddar for mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little heat. Just use the same amount to maintain the texture and flavor balance.