Okay, y’all, let’s talk about something truly special: Bisquick Sausage Balls. These little bites of heaven are seriously addictive, and they’re one of the first things I learned to “cook” when I was a kid. Think of them as the savory cousin to your favorite donut holes, but instead of sweet, you get a burst of cheesy, sausage-y goodness that just melts in your mouth. I swear, they’re so easy to make, even my dog could probably manage it (if he had opposable thumbs, of course!). Seriously though, if you’re looking for an easy and crowd-pleasing recipe that requires minimal effort, the Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe is your answer!
What is Bisquick Sausage Ball recipe?
So, what exactly *are* Bisquick Sausage Balls? They’re essentially bite-sized savory balls made with just a few simple ingredients: Bisquick baking mix, sausage, and cheese. Think of it as a shortcut biscuit, but instead of plain dough, you’re adding delicious sausage and cheese for a flavor explosion. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, appetizers, or even just a snack when you’re craving something comforting. They got their name because, traditionally, the main ingredient is Bisquick. It’s a total lifesaver because it already contains the flour, leavening, and salt – all the stuff you’d normally have to measure out individually. It is so easy and so convenient!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh honey, where do I even begin? These Bisquick Sausage Balls are not just a recipe; they are a *staple* in my house. Here’s why you’re going to be obsessed:
- The Flavor Bomb: What are the The combination of savory sausage, cheesy goodness, and that hint of Bisquick sweetness is just out of this world. Every bite is a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
- Ridiculously EasyI’m talking five ingredients and one bowl easy. What are some of the best recipes to bake? You dump everything in, mix it up, roll it into balls and bake. What is the best recipe for a quick dinner that you can make yourself?
- Budget-Friendly: Sausage, cheese, and Bisquick are pantry staples, and they won’t break the bank. You can feed a crowd without emptying your wallet!
- Super Versatile:What are some great breakfast, brunch, appetizers, and snacks? I’ve even packed them in my kids’ lunchboxes (when I feel ambitious, of course).
- Make-Ahead Magic You can prepare the sausage balls ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready. Perfect for holiday gatherings or lazy weekend mornings.
What I love most about this Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe is its sheer adaptability. You can add different cheeses, spices, or even a dash of hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking. They’re similar to pigs in a blanket, but with a much easier dough situation and more complex flavors. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!
How do I make Bisquick Sausage Balls?
Quick Overview
Making these Bisquick Sausage Balls is incredibly simple. You basically mix Bisquick, sausage, and cheese in a bowl, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, and bake until golden brown. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The best part is that you don’t need any fancy equipment – just a bowl, a baking sheet, and your hands!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 3 cups Bisquick baking mix: I always use the original, but you can use the heart-smart version too.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: I usually go with a mild or hot sausage, depending on my mood. Jimmy Dean is a classic, but feel free to experiment.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can use any cheese you like – Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend.
- 1/2 cup milk: This helps bind everything together. Is whole milk good for you? I’ve used buttermilk in a pinch, and it adds some nice tang!
- I always add garlic powder to my arugula. I like to add more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do I prevent sausage balls from sticking to my hands? I’ve tried skipping the parchment paper before, and let me tell you, scrubbing burnt cheese off a rag is really hard. What’s a good time to bake on the baking sheet?
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the Bisquick, sausage, cheddar cheese, milk, and garlic powder (if using). Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get in there! How do you make your hands warm? What is the best way to make a light texture?
Step 3: Roll into Balls
Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. I like to use a small cookie scoop to ensure they’re all the same size, but you can definitely just use your hands. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they won’t bake evenly. If you’re making a big batch, you might need to bake them in two batches.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). I always do a quick check with meat thermometer to be sure. They should be nicely browned and firm to the touch.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. What are the best side dishes to serve warm or at room temperature? I always make a double batch because they disappear so quickly!
What to Serve It With
What are some ideas to take these little guys to the next level?
For Breakfast:Serve them with scrambled eggs, a side of fruit, and coffee. What are some good side dishes to serve with sour cream?
For Brunch:Serve them on a platter with other brunch favorites like mini quiches, Fruit Salad, and mimosas. Add a dipping sauce like honey mustard or spicy Aioli for an extra touch.
As an appetizer: Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a sweet chili sauce. Arrange them on a tray with some crackers and cheese for a complete appetizer spread.
For Cozy Snacks:What are some good side dishes to serve with a bowl of soup or chili? What are some good side dishes to serve with coleslaw or Potato Salad?
My family loves to dip sausages in honey mustard – the sweetness complements the savory sausage. One year, we even served them with cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving, and they were a huge hit! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite pairings.
How do I make Bisquick Sausage Balls?
Here are a few tricks I’ve learned over the years to make these Bisquick Sausage Balls absolutely perfect:
Sausage: What areWhat type of sausage you use can significantly affect the flavor of your sausage. I prefer using a high-quality breakfast sausage, but you can also use Italian sausage or even ham. What is chorizo for a spicier kick? Just make sure to remove the casings before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Why cheese matters?While cheddar is a classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a nice bit of heat, while Gruyere gives more sophisticated flavor. How do you shred your own cheese? How can I prevent it from melting properly?
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in tough, dense sausage balls. Mix just until everything is combined. A few streaks of Bisquick are okay. Remember, we’re aiming for light and fluffy, not hockey pucks!
Chill Out: If you have time, chilling the sausage ball mixture for about 30 minutes before rolling them into balls can help them hold their shape better while baking.
Baking Time: Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them. They’re done when they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. If they start to brown too quickly, you can tent them with foil.
Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to add a little extra flavor with spices. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper all work well. I also love adding a pinch of Red Pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
One time, I accidentally added too much milk to the batter, and the sausage balls turned out super dense and greasy. I learned my lesson the hard way – stick to the recipe! And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to the batter for a burst of freshness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Bisquick Sausage Balls are best served fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated. Here’s how:
Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated.
Refrigerator Storage: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing them to prevent condensation.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating Tips: To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, but they may become a bit soggy. For frozen sausage balls, bake them directly from frozen for about 20-25 minutes.
I usually double the batch and freeze half for later. They’re perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or snack when I don’t have time to cook. Just pop them in the oven, and they’re ready in minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe! They’re easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a holiday brunch, a casual get-together, or just a quick snack, they’re sure to be a hit. The best part is that they’re so customizable – you can add your favorite cheeses, spices, or even veggies to make them your own. If you loved this, you should also check out my recipe for cheesy biscuits! Seriously, they’re both perfect for when you need something comforting and delicious.
I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what variations you tried. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family. Happy baking!